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Why Is English so Crazy? (A Short History of the English Language)

In this one time course, students will get a glimpse of the root languages that serve as the foundation for Modern English.
Marilynn K Thomas
Average rating:
5.0
Number of reviews:
(1)
Class
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What's included

1 live meeting
25 mins in-class hours

Class Experience

A short history of the English language addresses the four languages that made up and influenced the original language and culture of England.  I will present the four invasions and subsequent settlements of the different linguistic groups in an informal lecture that will help explain why English has so many exceptions to the spelling and pronunciation rules. One such rule dictates "I before e, except after "C", but what about "their, neighbor, weigh, and sleigh?" There will be a short question/answer time as well as an informal quiz.  Student should be native/near native speakers of English.

Learning Goals

Students will gain appreciation and insight into the English language through introduction of the various linguistic groups and their various spelling and pronunciation rules.
learning goal

Other Details

Parental Guidance
None
Supply List
Not applicable
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Sources
Webster's New 20th Century Dictionary of the English Language: "Outline History of the English Language", pp vii-xi. 1979. The English Language: Its Origin & History by Rudolph C. Bambas 1980 The History of the English Language. A Source Book by David Burnley. 1992
Joined February, 2022
5.0
1reviews
Profile
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have taught H.S. English, History of the English Language (Why is English so difficult to read/spell?); Reading for grades K-12 (dyslexics welcome),  Creative writing (Make writing FUN!); and Stop Groaning about GRAMMAR! I have a B.S. from Illinois State, Master's in Reading from the University of Illinois, and an Ed. Specialist from Florida Atlantic (thesis: "How Students Learn"). I taught  for 16 years in Chicago schools and Florida schools everything from Basic English, G.E.D. classes, ESL classes, and private tutoring for Grade School and High School .  I also have taught ESL online for 5 years (VIPKID and TutorABC). I am certified in TEFL. Through 4-H clubs I've taught basic sewing and cooking.  I've also taught basic piano.  My philosophy is "Find what the student needs and find a way to teach it!" My hobby is genealogy through which I have helped adoptees find their families using research and genetics.

Reviews

Live One-Time Class
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$11

per class
Meets once
25 min

Completed by 4 learners
Live video meetings
Ages: 14-18
3-5 learners per class

This class is no longer offered
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