English

USA

Introduction
There are many varieties of English around the world, including for example
Australian English, New Zealand English, Canadian English, South African English,
Indian English and Caribbean English. The purpose of this content is to both
establish and highlight the essential differences between American and British
English. Its not just the broad accents that make our vocabulary different. These
differences can be seen in the way words are pronounced and spelt, when those
words are put to paper.

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Figure 2 https://c1.staticflickr.com/3/2481/3794755362_b9c7ed04ec_b.jpg

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Contents
What does history tell us? ....................................................................................................... 3
The land of opportunity ........................................................................................................... 4
How to test your understanding of American Vs British English. ............................................ 5
Academic Options ................................................................................................................... 6
Conclusion .............................................................................................................................. 6

Figure 3 https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/4/47/New_york_times_square-terabass.jpg

What does history tell us?

The English
language was first
introduced to our
friends across the
pond during the early
1700s. The English
colonisation of
America resulted in
the creation of a very
distinct American
variety of English.

Some say that the American adaption is actually closer to that of the great British
poet and writer Shakespeare. Traditionally English pronunciations and words froze
on arrival in America. You may be familiar with the expression Americanisms, a
typically British term for the Americans take on traditional English. Whats interesting
to know however is that some of these terms are in fact original British expressions
that just happened to be preserved in the colonies whilst gradually finding
themselves lost in Britain. For example, phrases such as trash for rubbish and
loan as a verb instead of lend.
The American language is built around a variety of influences not just England; for
example, many phrases originate from both Spain and France. The Spanish
language has had multiple effects on both American and British English. Vigilante
is an example of a Spanish word entering the English language through the
settlement of the American West. French influences originate from Louisiana.
Finally, West African words can be seen and heard in American English and to an
extent, British English. This is of course due to the slave trade, a huge moment in
history which had copious effects on how both the English and Americans
communicate in modern day language. Today, American English is hugely influential
thanks to the USAs dominance of television, cinema and popular music.

The land of opportunity

Each year, vast numbers of students seek out opportunities and classes to study
English in the USA and therefore better their understanding of these often opposing
types of English. Most commonly, this offers new students a chance to better their
understanding in preparation for further advanced courses at either college or
university. Its extremely easy to simply assume you know all there is to know about
the variations of the language. However, there are in fact approximately 1,800 roots
and derivatives that differ between British and American English. Although
Television series such a Friends can offer an insight into the vocabulary and its
differences, it cannot delve into the core in the same way an intensive study
programme would.

Truth is, its not just the language that offers multiple differences, the classroom
environment and whole higher educational system in the United States of America is
incredibly unique. The system encourages discussion and debate between pupils,
providing a chance to truly explain your reasoning rather than simply learn by the
text book. Class participation means youll soon be presenting, arguing your case
and quizzing others on subjects you perhaps once questioned, but now feel
confident on. Its an extremely hands on approach that teaches both historical and
modern takes on the language.
Advancing your English language skills will give you higher TOEFL score, widening
the selection of universities and colleges you can choose from. It is bad practise to
assume simply because you have an understanding of British English, that you
therefore must know the American way. To properly advance and excel in your time
and studies within the USA its vital you invest time in learning their way of
communication.

How to test your understanding of

American Vs British English
Its incredibly common to assume you know all there is to know about the English
language, heavily due to the fact, its everywhere. There are several aspects that
often catch people out and question whether youre up to scratch with the full
vocabulary. You may well be an expert at understanding English when watching
television, movies, listening to music but find it difficult when it comes to expressing
yourself through writing or verbal communication. Keep aspects to keep in mind
when considering this are as follows:

Do you have difficulty when attempting to understand and use phrasal verbs
and idioms naturally with ease?
Do you feel comfortable when in relaxed conversation but then struggle to
effectively get your point across when expressing ideas or arguing a point?
Can you read and digest sophisticated articles but when writing still struggle
to engage on a similar level?
Perhaps you have a good understanding and knowledge but still suffer from
lack of confidence when thinking about pronunciation.
Perhaps your confidence is knocked by your accent, making you nervous
when using the language out loud.

Consider these points and ask yourself if youre currently struggling with any of the
above. If yes, its highly likely you would suit a course that challenges your spoken
word and encourages you to broaden your understanding of the English language.

Chips Vs. Crisps

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Academic Options
To begin with its important to know what level of teaching you require. The USA
offers a vast range of full-time intensive English programmes. Intensive programmes
will always run for a minimum of eighteen hours per week, this allows students to
qualify for a student Visa. Advanced intensive programmes will extend to
approximately 20-25 hours per week. Unfortunately the system does not work on a
roll on roll off basis. Students are required to join the course at the beginning of the
academic term, or semester, as the Americans would say.
Advantages are, you will be provided with accommodation on site. This means youll
be close to your area of study and can put worrying about extensive travel to the
back of your mind. Libraries and other communal areas will be nothing more than a
short walk away. Engaging and involving yourself in conversation with locals is key
to building your confidence.
In some cases, at a select number of academic institutes, students following the
advanced classes of English may be permitted to take a selection of secondary

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courses whilst completing their language study. Students on F-1 visas may work on
campus up to 20 hours a week, meaning further and more in-depth learning
opportunities. This is something worth delving into further, as its not also
guaranteed that you will be awarded via certificate for the additional course. Its
simply a way of advancing and further developing your knowledge by a secondary
route thats not initially included in the academic programme.

Conclusion

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In all cases it is important to do your homework before committing to or choosing a

school. You are, after all, embarking on a new exciting adventure. Choose carefully
as you wouldnt want to find yourself committed to a programme that limits your
ability. Finding your course has never been easier, similar to meeting fellow
students who have previously been, or are currently, seeking out opportunities like
yourself. Source communities or social media groups to open discussions and gain
further information before booking and embarking on your trip. We learn from those
around us every day, seek and you shall find.