Assuming no prior knowledge, books in the series offer an accessible overview of the subject, with activities, study questions, sample analyses, commentaries and key readings - all in the same volume. The innovative and flexible 'two-dimensional' structure is built around four sections - introduction, development, exploration and extension - which offer self-contained stages for study. Each topic can also be read across these sections, enabling the reader to build gradually on the knowledge gained. Introducing English Language is the foundational book in the Routledge English Language Introductions series and offers a grounding to all the titles featured in the series; gives comprehensive coverage of the essential aspects of the English language, as well as providing an introduction to key disciplines of linguistics such as historical, social and psycholinguistics, and also core areas in language study including acquisition, standardisation and the globalisation of English; uses a wide variety of real texts and images that include: a transcript of a conversation between George W. Bush and Tony Blair, a controversial 'apology' broadcast on BBC Radio 4, excerpt from novels including 'Alien' and photographs from Hong Kong; provides classic readings by the key names in the discipline including Guy Cook, Joan Cutting, Zoltán Dörnyei, Andy Kirkpatrick and John Sinclair; and is accompanied by a supporting series website with additional activities, project ideas for each unit, further guidance on areas mentioned in the book, suggestions for further reading, weblinks to essential English Language resources, and course templates for lecturers. Written by two experienced teachers and authors, this accessible textbook is an essential resource for all students of English language and linguistics.