You will find that some courses are only available for WEA members at this time, as part of member's priority booking. Courses will become available for all at 11 am on Wednesday 3rd July. Alternatively, become a WEA member today to book right away. Click on the 'Become a member' link at the top of the page.
Humanities & Science
History: Why Do We Say That?
Early booking is a membership perk for WEA members, where courses are available exclusively before becoming available for everyone else.
Course details
Course code
Q00009336Course date
Start: 08/01/25
End: 12/02/25
Number of classes
6 sessionsTutor
Janet WilsonFee range
Free to £40.80
How you'll learn
Venue
OnlineLevel of study
Availability
This course is for early booking only.
Course overview
Join this engaging course that delves into the captivating history and evolution of idioms, expressions, and accents in (British) English. Explore both newer and older accents while uncovering the origins of everyday idioms and literary expressions. The course will also look at slang and secret languages that have evolved over time.
This is course is open to beginners and those with prior knowledge of the subject. Taking place online, over the course of six weeks, with access to presentations and discussions even after each session.
This course is for early booking only.
Course description
Over the six weeks, you will learn about different accents of British English, how metaphor works, the history and meaning of some idioms and expressions and the form and function of some secret languages or ‘cants’ of English. Through the course, you will also learn how social and historical context shapes the expressions and idioms that we use. The course may also be interesting for anyone who is curious about how metaphor and figurative language work, and may have applications for anyone interested in teaching English.
This course is for adults and requires no previous experience. It is delivered online over six weeks, through a series of presentations and discussions.
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We don't want anything to stand in your way when it comes to bringing Adult learning within reach so if you need anything to support you to achieve your goals then speak to one of our education experts during your enrolment journey. Most of our courses are government funded but if you don't qualify or need alternative financial help to access them then let us know.
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All of our digital content, teaching and learning activities and assessments are designed to be accessible so if you need any additional support you can discuss this with the education experts during your enrolment journey and we will do all we can to make sure you have optimal access.
