   
David Crystal
Language Acquisition
Not only is this a core topic for
AS/A2 students, it is also one of
David Crystal’s best lectures; and
that is saying something. After a
distinguished academic career
as a linguist, David Crystal took it
upon himself to write more books
on language than anyone thought
possible. He really is a phenomenon
and every English language student
should hear him at least once.
Txting: the Gr8 Db8
Typically, David Crystal is always
ready to explore new variants
of language without making a
judgement. As your students
hardly need reminding, texting
is a new and expressive form of
communication. How can this be
looked at from a more academic
perspective and is this a rich source
for coursework?
Michael Rosen
I would suggest that the richest
source of material for English
Language students is Radio 4’s
Word of Mouth, presented by
the academic and writer Michael
Rosen. He has just finished as a
very popular children’s laureate.
In this lecture he will explore the
controversial idea of ‘word poverty’,
identified by Jim Rose amongst
others as a serious problem with
children today. Michael challenges
the basic idea of word poverty,
assesses the evidence (or lack
of it) and considers the extent to
which formal education develops
people’s language. This talk could
stimulate some interesting and
manageable coursework.
Simon Hoggart
The Language of Politics
Who better than The Guardian’s
political diarist, to consider that
very particular sort of language,
the language of parliament (and
those who have seen In the Loop,
this lecture will be suitable for 16
to 18 year olds)?
John Shuttleworth Two chief examiner sessions
MANCHESTER Maxwell Hall - Wednesday 03.02.10
LONDON Logan Hall - Tuesday 09.02.10
BIRMINGHAM Town Hall - Tuesday 2 March 2010
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