ABSTRACT
In this chapter we look at English as an academic language as it is used by lecturers, students and researchers in universities and colleges in many parts of the world. We look at what constitutes ‘academic’ English and consider the expectations that people have about its correct use. Some of the issues raised in earlier chapters of the book, for example, the demands made on students by being educated in English, will reappear here as they are relevant to higher education. The main questions which we will address are as follows:
• What is ‘academic’ English and how is its nature related to its functions? • How are students in higher education expected to use English? • What kinds of problems do students encounter with ‘academic’ English? • What kinds of help are students offered?
