English in Singapore: An Introduction

English in Singapore: An Introduction gives a broad overview of the history, status and features of this New English. It briefly describes the position of New Englishes within the range of English-speaking countries around the world, before outlining the historical advent and spread of English in Singapore. The present-day status of Singapore English, and various analytical frameworks proposed for describing it, are examined, including the fact that Singaporeans speak English and one other language. An exploration of the types of judgement that speakers make about language is necessary before embarking on a systematic description of features of Singapore English. These features include vocabulary, grammar and pronunciation, both segmental (vowels and consonants) and suprasegmental (stress, rhythm and intonation). These features are recapped in an analysis of a scene from Beauty World, investigating the use of Singapore English in creative literature. The final chapter considers the implications that Singapore English has for Singaporean teachers. The book serves as an introduction to Singapore English, as it covers all major aspects, and incorporates the results of research carried out over the last two decades. It can be used as a coursebook, as it includes several exercises for readers to investigate their own use of English. It will also be important reading for researchers, teachers and students in Singapore, as well as anyone interested in the development and characteristics of this New variety of English.