Why study the development of English?
The English language is difficult to pronounce and spell, even for native speakers. English is like this at least in part because it is a mixture of languages. Over centuries it has absorbed vocabulary, sounds, and grammar from many linguistic sources.
For the same reason, however, English has fascinating connections to other languages and cultures. It is a rich linguistic "fabric" with threads of many colors and textures.
On this page you will study how the movements of people from place to place, over time, have made English the dynamic, international language it is today. You will understand more about its relationship to other languages, and you will develop new English vocabulary-building skills.
Watch for reminders and follow-up activities throughout the site. Enjoy!
Material on this site was taken from the following sources: