This course introduces the key historical developments of the English language and the primary tools for the study of language. Topics to be discussed may include: the origins of and precursors to the English language; the phonology, lexicon, and grammar of English; the persistence of language change; the historical factors that affect language change; the origins and implications of language variety; the formation of prestige dialects; and the current state of the English language in Canada and the world. Reading-intensive course.