The history of English
Storyboard Text
- Hey grandma… The teacher told us to do a tale about the history of english and I don't know anything about English, I just know how to speak it. Can you help me ?
- Well.. that sounds easy, I'll help you. Back in my days I was a historian, just to let you know. Take notes about everything I tell you, pay attention.
- Let's start with some background information. English has its roots in the Germanic languages, as well as having many influences from romance languages such as French.
- Did it also come from latin? Many words are kind of similar..
- So the words "England" and "English" are derived from that?
- Exactly. Now, the English language really started with the arrival of three Germanic tribes who invaded Britain during the 5th century AD. These tribes, crossed the North Sea. At that time the inhabitants of Britain spoke a Celtic language. But most of the Celtic speakers were pushed west and north by the invaders. The Angles came from "Englaland" and their language was called "Englisc".
- Thanks, now that we covered the background, why do you think it became so widespread across the world.
- Yes, great work, you are going to get good grades if you continue working like this.
- The British empire had conquered almost a quarter of the world, making English a significant language in many colonies, since it was the primary language used at trading. English speakers migrated to North America, then the founding fathers of the United States worked to reinforce its position as the language of the majority. More and more people around the world learned it and English became the language of business and politics, establishing it as a key competence in the society of today.
- But, Why is it important ?
- English is widely spoken and taught in over 118 countries and is commonly used around the world as a trade language or diplomatic language. It is the language of international communication, the media and the internet. It gives you an open door to the world and helps you communicate with global citizens.
- Wow, I never realized the impact that a single language can have on the world. Thank you so much grandma, this is going to be the best assignment that I have ever turned in.
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