Varieties of English: Practice Questions

What is the primary role of Standard English within a national or international framework?

In Braj Kachru’s Three Circles model, how is the Outer Circle primarily defined?

In Edgar Schneider's Dynamic Model of the evolution of New Englishes, which stage is characterized by the 'forging of a new identity' where the variety starts to develop its own distinct vocabulary and grammar?

In the context of Varieties of English, which term refers to the use of English as a common language of communication between speakers whose native languages are different?

In the context of Robert Phillipson's theories on Varieties of English, what is the core premise of Linguistic Imperialism?

Define the term creole as it relates to the study of Varieties of English.

In the development of new Varieties of English, what is the primary difference between exonormative and endonormative stabilization?

Explain the relationship between the dominance of Global English and the sociological phenomenon of language shift.

In the study of Varieties of English, the distinction between 'Standard' and 'Non-standard' varieties is often linked to social prestige rather than linguistic complexity.

(a) Briefly explain the term standardisation and identify one historical reason why a particular variety might become the 'standard' in a society.

(b) Define the term creolisation and explain its role in the development of new varieties of English, particularly in post-colonial contexts.

(a) Explain the difference between norm-providing and norm-dependent varieties of English within the context of global linguistic usage.
(b) Discuss how unofficial attitudes towards a non-standard variety can impact the social identity of its speakers despite the variety's lack of official status.