This debate focuses on the relevance of variation in English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) in the ELT classroom.

About the session

English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) is interesting for researchers, but not important for teachers and learners

As English has become the global lingua franca, there has been a lot of discussion of, and investigation into, the varied ways in which it is spoken around the world, and by different groups of speakers. But is such variation in English as a Lingua Franca (ELF) relevant to the ELT classroom? Is what we have learned about ELF important for English language teachers and learners? Our two speakers will debate the issues. Please come along, have your say, ask questions – and join in the vote.

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