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Big Ideas: Evolving English and the impact of television

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Presenter David Astle
Big Ideas: Evolving English and the impact of television

SUBJECTS:  English

YEARS:  9–10


Imagine if the English language never evolved. What would we be speaking?

Possibly Old English, the language of the Anglo-Saxon tribes, a language written down using runes known as the 'futhorc'.

English continues to evolve, but it takes the media to bring new words into common usage. So which form of media is responsible for the most change to the English language?

In this clip from Radio National, David Astle argues that television has the most significant impact.


Things to think about

  1. 1.What is a neologism? Use the internet to find out. Have you ever acknowledged doing something wrong by saying 'my bad'? Do you use any words and phrases that have come from the TV shows that you watch? You might be surprised!
  2. 2.David uses many catchphrases from TV shows and advertisements in his argument. Identify some that you recognise. Why does he include these? David's speech is quite lengthy. How does he maintain the audience's interest? What does David do to signal the end of his argument and remind the audience of the topic?
  3. 3.Why does David believe TV has the most impact on how English language develops? Do you agree with him? Explain your view. Why might this speech be considered satirical? How might the English language continue to evolve in the future? What technological advancements do you think are already having an impact?
  4. 4.Research the early history of the English language, particularly the influence of the Romans, the Anglo-Saxon tribes, the Normans and the Vikings. Identify a range of words that you use regularly that come from each culture. Find an example of text written in Old English, such as 'Beowulf'. Compare it to a modern translation. Can you recognise any of the words?



Date of broadcast: 13 Nov 2011


Copyright

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