International Teachers of English Conference Abstracts

United States

World English Listening Skills Kevin McCCaughey – United States of America

In this companion workshop to Whiter English participants will practice "World English" activities. We will hear English voices from around the world, from around America, and examine the "vacuum-cleaner" aspect: how English has always been ready to suck up words from a myriad of languages. Methods and materials for incorporating some world English listening skills will be supplied.

The Evolution of the Phrasal Verb, with Practical Methods for Learning Them
Kevin McCCaughey – United States of America

The English language has two words for every verbal meaning: a phrasal verb (like "look like"), and a one-word verb ("resemble"). The semantic meanings are neglible, so how does the English speaker know when to use one and not the other? A look into the history of English will reveal the roots of phrasal verbs and make them easier to learn. Participants will partake in many activities themselves. In addition, we'll speculate on how the influence of new Englishes (e.g. Chinese English, Spanish English, etc.) will affect the use of phrasal verbs in the future.

Whither English? Kevin McCCaughey – United States of America

The lecture examines the evolution of English and its course towards a global lingua franca, and discusses the implications of this rise -- especially for teachers of English in the former USSR. What is the proper English today -- British, American, Australian? What nations are and will be influencing English today? In light of this changing English, how do teachers apply what is best for their students? What are the implications for administrations and ministries? All of this must make us take a look at English instruction through a new lens.