EXPLORING ENGLISH AS A LINGUA FRANCA: A REVIEW OF STUDIES ON ELF- AWARENESS IN TURKEY

Abstract

Language has been the central element of our lives and there are many languages around the world. English is one of the most well-known and spoken languages. The countries whose native language isn’t English attach importance to the teaching and learning process of English. The linguistic differences between English and other language make this process difficult. In addition, the cultural and regional differences and varieties of countries in which English is the native languages are the other aspects of this process. During education in English, it is necessary to be aware of these differences and to be acquainted with the current changes in English as an English language teacher. Particularly after the globalization of English and the new terms coming up with this (Englishes, English as a lingua franca, multilingualism, etc.), it has become more of an issue to know about it. In this study, it is attempted to explain these current terms and their relations with the language teaching process. This study also presents some of the related studies on this topic. Finally, the study will conclude by mentioning some comments about how to raise awareness of English as a lingua franca (ELF).