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2 - An Ontological Framework for English

from Part I - Introduction

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  24 December 2019

By
Christopher J. Hall
Edited by
Christopher J. Hall  and
Rachel Wicaksono
Christopher J. Hall
Affiliation:
York St John University
Rachel Wicaksono
Affiliation:
York St John University
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Summary

What is there in the world that we refer to as ‘the English language’? Is it more than one thing? If so, how many? And what is their ontological status? For those of us engaged in researching and teaching what we call English, these are fundamental questions, yet they are seldom posed. In addressing them explicitly here, I aim to provide academics, teachers, and policy makers with some conceptual tools and arguments for a deeper reflection on the nature of English, with a view to ultimately benefiting learners and users.

Keywords

language ontologystandard Englishlanguage and national identityI-languageE-languageN-languagelanguagingEnglishing
Type
Chapter
Information
Ontologies of English
Conceptualising the Language for Learning, Teaching, and Assessment
 , pp. 13 - 36
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
Print publication year: 2020

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