ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses a formative assessment activity conducted in a teacher education course called “English in the Pacific.” Using Moodle-based discussion forums, it is designed to promote reflection on five key themes: that English is, linguistically, not superior to any other language; that it is neither pure nor unchanging; that it has gained power and prestige through phenomena such as colonialism and globalization; that “Standard English” is an important (albeit contested) notion, and learners do need access to whichever variety carries prestige; and that, although there is no single “Standard English,” this does not mean that anything goes. Reflections from the field indicate that the activity enables teachers to reflect on their own prior beliefs and insecurities about the nature of English, while benefiting from the chance to review the reflections of their classmates. This activity is particularly suitable for Outer Circle contexts, and is easily adaptable for those in Expanding Circle contexts.
