Exploring English: Language and Culture - ExpertTrack - Future Learn verified listing

This British Council ExpertTrack will deepen your understanding of UK culture and history as well as help you improve your English and give you opportunities to practice at every step.

The three ExpertTrack courses look at some aspects of modern British culture and also look at some of the roots of British culture in the work of William Shakespeare and in the Magna Carta, the foundation of our modern democracy. During the three courses, you will listen to authentic English in interviews with people from all over the UK, carry out language activities based on the English you hear and share your own thoughts, experiences and opinions at every step.

Immerse yourself in British culture 

Explore the role of music, literature and the countryside in British culture In the first course of this ExpertTrack, Language and Culture, you will investigate some core elements of British culture.

First, you will consider English as a global language. How did English become the language of business, education, and popular culture in many parts of the world? Next, you'll look at the role of music in British culture. Who are your favorite British musicians? Can listening to songs help you learn a language?

The British countryside is famous for its green, but what do you know about the four countries that make up the UK? You'll get a taste of all four. Finally, who is your favorite British author? You will see some famous books and authors and share your own reading experience, from the UK and from your own culture.

Get an introduction to Shakespeare and study some of his best-known works. William Shakespeare is Britain's most famous and beloved writer.

In the second course, you will learn about Shakespeare's life in Stratford-upon-Avon. You'll also see five of his most famous works, including Romeo and Juliet and Hamlet. You'll hear actors describe their thoughts and experiences playing Shakespearean characters and learn more about Shakespeare's lasting influence on the English language. You'll even have the chance to perform a bit of Shakespeare yourself!

Learn all about the Magna Carta This course will begin by looking at the events that led to the signing of the "great charter", the Magna Carta in 1215. How did this document, almost forgotten for hundreds of years, play such an important role in shaping to the history. You will see his role in the formation of modern Britain.