essay on canada in english

3 Essays on Canada that Carve Out a Deeper Understanding of the Country!

Canada, a mosaic of landscapes, cultures, and histories, is a captivating subject of exploration. In this collection, we delve into three distinct aspects of this diverse nation.

From its breathtaking wilderness to its multicultural society and rich history, these essays provide a glimpse into the multifaceted tapestry that defines Canada.

Essay 1: Why is Canada a Good Place to Live and Work

Canada, with its picturesque landscapes, vibrant cities, and diverse culture, stands as an attractive destination for individuals seeking a better quality of life and ample opportunities for personal and professional growth.

Its reputation as a welcoming and progressive nation is not unfounded, as it is supported by a multitude of factors that contribute to making Canada a prime choice for living and working.

One of the foremost reasons that make Canada a great place to live and work is its commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The country is often celebrated as a cultural mosaic, where people from various ethnic backgrounds coexist harmoniously.

This commitment to diversity is beautifully epitomized in cities like Toronto, where one can experience a tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. Justin Trudeau, the Prime Minister of Canada, succinctly captures this ethos, stating, “Canada is strong not in spite of our differences, but because of them.”

This emphasis on celebrating differences has resulted in an open and accepting society that welcomes immigrants and fosters a sense of belonging.

Furthermore, Canada’s robust healthcare and education systems add to its allure. The country offers universal healthcare, ensuring that every citizen and permanent resident has access to essential medical services.

This safety net provides peace of mind to residents, knowing that their health concerns will be addressed without facing crippling financial burdens. In the realm of education, Canada boasts world-class institutions that consistently rank among the top globally.

The quality of education, coupled with the multicultural environment, attracts students from around the world, creating a dynamic and intellectually stimulating atmosphere.

Canada’s natural beauty is another undeniable draw. From the breathtaking Rocky Mountains to the serene shores of its many lakes, the country offers a plethora of outdoor activities and a chance to reconnect with nature.

The preservation of its environment is a testament to Canada’s commitment to sustainable practices and high quality of life. The words of renowned environmentalist David Suzuki ring true in this context: “Canada is a country whose main exports are hockey players and cold fronts.

Our main imports are baseball players and acid rain.” The emphasis on protecting the environment for future generations underscores the nation’s dedication to both its citizens and the world at large.

Economically, Canada stands as a stable and prosperous nation. Its thriving industries, such as technology, natural resources, and finance, provide ample employment opportunities.

The country’s sound economic policies and prudent financial regulations have shielded it from the worst impacts of global economic downturns. This stability ensures job security and a promising future for those who choose to build their careers within its borders.

In addition, Canada’s commitment to social welfare is admirable. The Canadian social safety net includes unemployment benefits, affordable housing programs, and support for families and seniors.

This safety net promotes social cohesion and alleviates financial stress during challenging times. Former Canadian Prime Minister, Lester B. Pearson, encapsulated this sentiment: “We are not here to boast; we are here to do a job.” This dedication to serving the needs of its citizens speaks volumes about the nation’s values and priorities.

In conclusion, Canada’s well-deserved reputation for quality living and work is supported by diversity, healthcare, education, nature, stability, and welfare. A prime choice for a fulfilling life, Canada’s allegiance to citizens shines as a global opportunity beacon.

Essay 2: Refugees in Canada: A Path to Hope and Opportunity

Canada, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and diverse culture, has also gained international recognition for its compassionate approach toward refugees.

The topic of refugees in Canada is one that has sparked both admiration and intrigue. In this essay, we will explore the country’s exceptional stance on refugee resettlement, the impact of refugees on Canadian society, and the role of global leaders in promoting this humanitarian cause.

Canada’s commitment to providing a safe haven for refugees is emblematic of its values and principles. Over the years, the Canadian government has consistently demonstrated its dedication to welcoming those fleeing conflict and persecution. The Canadian refugee resettlement program, which has been praised worldwide, is a testament to the nation’s belief in offering a second chance to those in need.

As former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau aptly stated, “Canada is a country built on immigration, and that diversity only makes us stronger.” These words encapsulate the essence of Canada’s approach to refugees, portraying them not as a burden, but as valuable contributors to the nation’s fabric.

In recent years, Canada has witnessed the profound impact of refugees on its society and economy. Far from being a mere humanitarian gesture, the integration of refugees has enriched Canada culturally, socially, and economically.

According to a study conducted by the Conference Board of Canada, immigrants, including refugees, play a crucial role in fostering innovation and driving economic growth. Their unique experiences and perspectives contribute to a vibrant tapestry of ideas, propelling Canada forward in an increasingly interconnected world.

This sentiment is echoed by entrepreneur and philanthropist, Elon Musk, who remarked, “The value of immigrants to the U.S. economy and to innovation is pretty much unassailable.” This sentiment holds true for Canada as well, as refugees continue to invigorate various sectors and communities across the country.

Furthermore, Canada’s support for refugees extends beyond its borders, signaling its commitment to global solidarity. The nation’s participation in international efforts to address the refugee crisis exemplifies its role as a responsible global citizen.

Former United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, António Guterres, praised Canada for being a “model for other countries,” highlighting its dedication to finding sustainable solutions for displaced populations.

Canada’s engagement in diplomatic initiatives and financial contributions underscores its belief in collective action and the importance of shouldering the responsibility of refugee protection on a global scale.

In conclusion, Canada shines as a beacon of compassion, offering hope and setting a global example with its welcoming approach to refugees. Through sanctuary, positive societal impact, and international engagement, Canada’s inclusivity and humanity stand out. Nobel Laureate Malala Yousafzai’s words remind us of the world-changing power of education. Canada’s embrace of refugees parallels this, providing a new book, a fresh start, and the chance to rewrite life stories. In doing so, Canada not only transforms refugees’ lives but also reshapes its own narrative, rooted in empathy, understanding, and the limitless potential of human resilience.

Essay 3: Multiculturalism In Canada

Multiculturalism, a concept that celebrates diversity and fosters inclusivity, has become a defining feature of modern societies. Canada, often cited as a paragon of multiculturalism, stands as a shining example of how a nation can embrace various cultures while maintaining social cohesion. This essay delves into the significance of multiculturalism in Canada, exploring its historical roots, societal implications, and the lessons it offers to the world.

Canada’s embrace of multiculturalism can be traced back to its history of immigration and settlement. Waves of immigrants from diverse corners of the globe have shaped the nation’s cultural fabric.

The policy of multiculturalism was officially recognized in 1971 when the Canadian government adopted the Multiculturalism Policy of Canada. This policy not only acknowledges the importance of cultural diversity but also promotes equality and social harmony among all citizens, irrespective of their backgrounds.

One of the remarkable aspects of Canada’s multiculturalism is its positive impact on society. Rather than creating isolated enclaves, multiculturalism has encouraged communities to interact, share, and learn from one another.

The result is a rich tapestry of traditions, languages, and perspectives that contribute to the nation’s dynamism. For instance, in cities like Toronto and Vancouver, one can find neighborhoods where Chinese markets coexist with Indian restaurants, creating a fusion of flavors and experiences that reflect the global village we live in.

In the words of former Canadian Prime Minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, “A society that emphasizes uniformity is one which creates intolerance and hate.” This sentiment underscores the wisdom of embracing multiculturalism.

When individuals are encouraged to express their unique identities, they are more likely to feel valued and respected, reducing the potential for social tensions. The Canadian approach of recognizing and celebrating diverse cultures has led to a society where citizens proudly identify with their heritage while also considering themselves Canadian.

However, multiculturalism is not without its challenges. Striking a balance between preserving cultural traditions and fostering a unified national identity can be intricate. Some critics argue that multicultural policies may inadvertently lead to cultural silos, hindering the assimilation of immigrants into the broader society.

To address this concern, it is crucial to promote activities that facilitate cross-cultural interactions, such as cultural festivals, language exchange programs, and collaborative community initiatives.

Former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan once remarked, “Tolerance, inter-cultural dialogue, and respect for diversity are more essential than ever in a world where peoples are becoming more and more closely interconnected.”

Canada’s commitment to multiculturalism aligns with this sentiment, offering a model for nations grappling with issues of identity and diversity. As countries face the challenges of globalization and increasing cultural intermingling, the Canadian experience underscores the importance of nurturing an environment where individuals from various backgrounds can coexist harmoniously.

In conclusion, Canada’s multiculturalism shines as a beacon of unity in our divided world. Its history, policies, and societal harmony showcase the power of embracing diversity. Canada celebrates differences, inspiring an inclusive global community. Let’s learn from this model and build a world that thrives on understanding and diversity. endeavor to create a global community that thrives on diversity and understanding.

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Personal Essay on “Why I want to Study in Canada”: Samples, Do’s and Don’t’s

• Updated on  
• Dec 8, 2023

If you want to learn how you can write an effective essay on studying in Canada, then you are at the right place. Maybe you are assigned to write this essay by your teacher, or you are submitting this to a competition, or maybe you are just preparing for a speech. It doesn’t matter what’s your intention, this blog will surely help you with writing your essay. We have provided below some samples of why I want to study in Canada essay. These sample essays will help you understand practically how you can write this topic. Towards the end of the blog, we will also share some do’s and don’t of writing the essay. 

This Blog Includes:

Sample 1 (100 words), sample 2 (150 words), sample 3 (300 words), do’s and don’t’s.

I want to study in Canada because it is known for offering high-quality education and extensive employment opportunities. This country can offer me everything I need to boost my career. It’s not just the academics that draw me towards Canada, it is also its good quality of life. The nation boasts an inclusive and culturally diverse environment. 

I am choosing Canada to study abroad because I will never feel far from home while studying in this country, thanks to its welcoming and friendly residents. I want to have a safe, secure, and booming career, and I believe Canada can offer me that. So, this was all I wanted to say in my why I want to study in Canada essay. 

Also Read: 🧑‍🚀Essay on Chandrayaan 3: Samples 100, 150, and 200 Words

Canada has always been my dream destination for the pursuit of my higher education and it’s not just me. Students from across the globe frequently choose Canada as their study-abroad destination and for very good reasons. Canada houses some of the most prestigious universities in the world, offering top-notch education and a plethora of career opportunities to international students. 

Universities like McGill University , University of Toronto , and the University of British Columbia consistently rank among the top across the world. These institutes provide a wide range of programs and disciplines to their students. 

Moreover, Canada is known for its acceptance and support of overseas students. This makes it easier for students from across the globe to integrate into the Canadian education system and feel at home. The nation’s government even offer various resources and services specifically created to support international students via health insurance, academic support, and housing assistance. I hope I clearly explained the reasons behind Canada being my choice in my why I want to study in Canada essay. 

Also Read: Essay on Indian Culture in 500 Words

Canada is a land of opportunities, for both residents and internationals. Home to some of the best universities in the world and thriving businesses, the country truly offers a ton of career opportunities. I want to give my career the right direction by studying in this beautiful country.

Here are the main reasons why I want to study in Canada:

Top-Notch Universities

Canada is home to various prominent universities, offering world-class education and placement opportunities. Universities like the University of British Columbia, University of Toronto, and McGill University consistently rank among the top in the world. 

High Academic Standards 

Canadian universities are known for their high academic standards, ensuring that students obtain a high-quality and rigorous education. The institutes in the country emphasize research and innovation, creating a stimulating environment for students to participate in cutting-edge research and contribute to their respective areas. 

Inclusive and Diverse Culture 

The multicultural society of Canada offers a unique chance for international students to immerse themselves in a diverse and inclusive environment. With people from different ethnicities, backgrounds, and cultures, studying in Canada offers a rich cultural experience. The exposure to different traditions, customs, and languages fosters open-mindedness and respect for diversity. This prepares students for a globalised world. 

Strong Job Market

Canada boasts a robust and diverse job market that provides various opportunities for overseas graduates. The country has a thriving economy and a shortage of skilled workers in numerous sectors, such as healthcare, engineering, IT, and business. This makes it easier for graduates to find employment. Moreover, Canada’s inclusive immigration policies and supportive business environment make it easier for international students to thrive in their careers. You can get access to a wide range of career opportunities by studying in Canada. 

So, this was all I wanted to say in my why I want to study in Canada essay. 

Also Read: Essay on Women’s Education

We hope that the above samples gave you a solid understanding of writing the why I want to study in Canada essay. However, there are some do’s and don’ts you need to keep in mind before you write your essay. 

Here are the do’s of writing the essay:

• Make sure that each paragraph is in sync with the topic,
• Stick to the provided word limit, 
• Pay special attention to the essay’s first line and first paragraph,
• Get to the point soon after providing a broad overview of the topic, and
• Ensure that the paragraphs follow a logical sequence.

Here are the don’t’s of writing the essay:

• Don’t spend too much time on writing the introduction of the essay,
• Refrain from writing very long sentences,
• Avoid stating facts when you are unsure about them, 
• Avoid writing very long incidents or stories in your essay. 

Also Read: Essay on Forest for Students in 500 Words

Ans: Moving to Canada can be immensely beneficial to your professional and personal life. The country boasts world-class education, good-quality life, a diverse culture, and extensive job opportunities. 

Ans: Yes, Canada offers a very safe and welcoming environment to Indian students. 

Ans: Yes, Canada is a wealthy country because of its strong and diversified economy.

Related Articles:

So, this was all about the why I want to study in Canada essay. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad .

Abhishek Kumar Jha

Abhishek Kumar Jha is a professional content writer and marketer, having extensive experience in delivering content in journalism and marketing. He has written news content related to education for prominent media outlets, garnering expansive knowledge of the Indian education landscape throughout his experience. Moreover, he is a skilled content marketer, with experience in writing SEO-friendly blogs. His educational background includes a Postgraduate Diploma in English Journalism from the prestigious Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), Dhenkanal. By receiving an education from a top journalism school and working in the corporate world with complete devotion, he has honed the essential skills needed to excel in content writing.

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Canada essay 4 models

Last updated Saturday , 16-03-2024 on 09:58 am

Canada essay  contains many important information about the State of Canada, which is the second largest in the world in terms of space. Here you will find information about the location of Canada as well as its economy, climate and everything related to it. All that information you will find here in Canada essay in English.

Canada essay

Canada is one of the most advanced countries in the world and here we will upgrade its economy and constitution and all the important information about Canada. All of this information will be found here in Canada essay.

The State of Canada is located in the northern part of the North American continent.It is a federal state with a representative democratic and constitutional monarchy, Where Queen Elizabeth II heads the state.

Canada is the second largest country in the world in terms of area, with a total area of ​​about 9984670 km 2, While the population according to the statistics in 2006 about 31612897 people. Canada extends from the Atlantic Ocean eastward to the Pacific Ocean, and on the north side is the Arctic Ocean.

English and French are the official languages ​​of the country.Canada is one of the most advanced countries in the world,  Canada is a member in the Group of Seven Industrial Countries , the Group of 20,  The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, the Organization of American States and APEC.

The State of Canada is a large part of the North American continent, sharing the southern border with the United States and also sharing the Northwest Frontier with the State of Alaska. The State of Canada is located between latitudes 41 ° C and 84 ° N and longitudes 52 ° W.

Canada consists of eight large forests, the most famous of which are the vast northern forests. It contains a large number of lakes and a large stock of fresh water in the world.

 Canada is also a geologically active country, with active earthquakes and volcanoes , most notably the volcano in the Tesikas cone in 1775 that killed 2,000 people.

Temperatures vary in Canada from one location to another, with coastal and inland provinces dominating a continental climate,  The land-locked areas are covered by snow for nearly six months..

Essay on Canada

Canada is one of the most exotic and surprising countries, as it combines a lot of different and diverse life on its land, and has many dangerous and deadly animals throughout.

Despite that, its people can coexist peacefully and adapt to any dangers or life around them. Canada has the longest coastline in the world, with a length of 200,000 km. In addition, it is surrounded by three oceans: the Atlantic on the east, the Arctic on the north, and the Pacific Ocean on the west.

The capital of Canada is called Ottawa, and it is the fourth largest Canadian city after Toronto – Calgary – Montreal. Surprisingly, Canada has six time zones due to the geographical range.

We can see in the Canadian flag the maple leaf, which is the most familiar and most famous emblem. Among the famous animals in Canada is the beaver and the Canadian horse as well.

Canada is characterized by many dangerous animals such as bears, which abound in the summer season, and is famous for catching salmon fish in the migration and breeding season.

It is also famous for its green spaces and forests. It is characterized by famous areas such as Niagara Falls, which is very famous in many shots in international films.

Essay about canada

Canada was discovered by the French, and the indigenous peoples of the Amerindians, and the Inuit tribes, lived there. Canada was discovered in the fifteenth century, in 1608.

Events developed in Canada from 1608 to 1663, as the country moved from French control to British hands and from English domination to independence.

There were many wars between the French and the British, called the Seven Years’ War, until France ceded all of Canada to Britain.

After that, Canada witnessed significant growth in agriculture and industry, until it signed a trade agreement with the United States in 1988.

To witness a great and complete change in trade and industry, and to become a source of great attraction for tourism and workers, to form Canada and become ancient and great as we see it today.

Essay on canada country

The local people of Canada are the Indians, and this name was given to them by the Europeans, when they first discovered the country, thinking that it extended to the East Indies, and they are the same people.

The indigenous people lived on fishing in various ways, using what allows them to hunt and live. Some of them worked in agriculture, others were fishermen. This is due to the area in which they live, and the extent of the availability of life in it, whether from water or fertile soil and other things.

The Siew Bedouin tribe is famous for other indigenous tribes that lived on Canadian lands. And that is because of her hunting for the bison buffalo, as they were tracking him and preparing ambushes for it to hunt.

This is the opposite of what the people of the west coast of Canada were doing, where they used to catch fish, dry it by smoking, and live on it. This method is still ongoing and present to this day.

The arrival of the Europeans to the local population in a large way, led to a great change in the way they lived and the tools they used, missionaries and colonial soldiers arrived in the country, which led to the dissemination of different cultures and customs of the indigenous peoples.

Among the things that affected the indigenous people are the diseases that came with the Europeans, which they lacked immunity against, which led to the death of many of them.

After that, many wars followed on Canadian soil from the Vikings and other countries until governments were formed and the constitution was formed, which helped change the entire region and earned it wealth and earned many kings great reputation and wealth.

We have provided you with  Canada essay,and you can read more through the following link:

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Canada - the biggest country in the New World

An intermediate level english resource  , canada - it's not the usa .

SOME SURPRISING FACTS ABOUT CANADA

• Canada is the second biggest country in the world, but the population is only about 39 million (late 2023).
•  Over half of all Canadians live south of a line that runs, in Europe, through Dijon, Zurich and Budapest.
• Winter temperatures regularly go down to -25°C all over Canada, except on the West Coast.
• Driving for 12 hours a day, it takes 5 days to go by road from Montreal to Vancouver.
• Ottawa, the Canadian capital, is situated in Ontario, on the border with Quebec. Its biggest suburb, Gatineau, is in Quebec. A third of the population of Ottawa are French-speakers.
• There is a Canadian version of the Loch Ness Monster , the "Turtle Lake Monster". It is said to be between 3 and 9 metres long, and to live in the very deep waters of Turtle Lake, Saskatchewan.

 A CANADIAN WINTER ...... Brrrr ! It's cold

Constitutional issues

The first canadians.

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Fill in the missing prepositions and adverbs in this extract from the section "a canadian winter", for teachers.

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Canada vs USA: Compare And Contrast Essay Sample

10 Jul 2019

People both outside and living within North America have the tendency to view the United States and Canada as one uniform region with homogenous cultural and political structures. The ecology of Canada and the US alone, demonstrate a great contrast, with the US having more diverse climates and ecosystems. Ice is a larger part of the Canadian landscape with the permafrost in the northern portion and more temperate climates toward the US-Canada border. The Canadian tundra and the Mojave Desert of the Southwest US receive fairly equitable rainfall but have vastly different temperatures. Mediterranean climates also make up a larger portion of the United States than in Canada. With the ecological differences in mind, it is also essential to point out the societal divergence between the US and Canada.

Canada is considerably larger than the United States, but contains only 1/10th of the population, with Canada housing more than 36 million inhabitants, and the US having a population of more than 325 million. While both countries reflect many of the values of western culture, the differences between the embodiment of these characteristics can be seen as soon as one crosses the border. Overall, the distinctions between

Canada and the United States can be categorized into three spheres: the political sphere, the economic sphere, and the socio-cultural sphere. Political Sphere With the recent political climate in the United States and the controversy surrounding America’s federal government, the political differences between the United States and Canada have become even more apparent, not only in structure but ideology as well. While both countries have a federal system, The United States has 50 states and 14 other territories, while Canada contains 10 provinces and 3 other territories. As Canada continues to be a nation under the Commonwealth the head of state is currently Queen Elizabeth or the monarchy. The prime minister of Canada, currently Justin Trudeau the 23rd Prime Minister, is the elected head of the federal government and acts as both the chief executive and a leader in the legislative branch. (Hardwick, Shelley & Holtgrieve, 2013).

One may say the separation of powers is of greater importance to US political ideology with the President of the United States being the head of the Executive Branch soley. While the president does have veto power as a check on Congress, he is often criticized when he steps out of his predetermined role in the executive branch and further into the legislative sphere. The process through which the head of government is elected is also somewhat different from each country demonstrating forms of democracy but different party systems.

There are a plethora of pros and cons to the US two-party system. While it makes for more concise politics, the divisive Republican and Democratic parties experience a large amount of gridlock because of the vast political chasm. Canada, on the other hand between four and five parties in the legislative body and even more than lobby for certain initiatives. In this system, voters are even more strongly tied to their party than specific politicians. However, because party leaders gain power through plurality and not an absolute majority like the United States, coalition building is a major part of the legislative process, making compromises more representative of the public’s opinion.

Canada and the United States political ideologies contrast with greater emphasis on different portions of governmental influence. While the precepts of democracy are still evident in both systems, and political freedom is a great source of pride for citizens in each nation, that sense of freedom seems to be founded in diverging practices. A laissez-faire attitude toward economic and political control is more prevalent in the US, with many citizens seeing that their personal freedom begins at the ends or limits of federal government. This can foster greater distrust and resentment toward national government, particularly when the opposing party has a greater disbursement of power. On the other hand, Canadians, on average, demonstrate greater trust in government, relying more on government services, namely healthcare. This leads into the distribution of federal funds. In the US, a larger amount of federal taxes go toward the department of defense and there is an overall greater emphasis on military power while in Canada a greater amount of federal funds are allocated toward socialized healthcare.

According to the Central Intelligence Agency’s World Factbook, in 2016 3.29% of the United States’ gross domestic product was allocated to military expenditures while 0.99% of Canada’s GDP went toward spending on defense programs. ("The World Factbook — Central Intelligence Agency", 2018) These differences in spending speak to the greater power wielded by the United States in world affairs, with the US having a permanent membership in the United Nations and NATO. Institutionalized violence is another topic of controversy between the United States and Canada. Canada has, in general, established stricter gun laws than the US. With the prevalence of mass shootings in both countries, gun laws have come to the forefront of the news and public policy. “Handguns accounted for 21 per cent of the total homicides [in 2016], and 58 percent of the shooting homicides. In the United States, by comparison, the report notes there were 7,105 homicides committed with a handgun in 2016, accounting for 47 percent of all homicides south of the border that year.” (Fletcher, 2018) Americans stress the protection of the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution, and often describe the United States’ more lenient gun laws as a source of liberty. Another example of the way institutionalized violence differs is with capital punishment.

Canada has abolished the death penalty for all crimes, including capital offenses, while in 30 of the 50 state there exist valid death penalty statutes. Finally one of the greatest contrast between the two countries is their differing ideologies surrounding immigration. Canada is recognized for its very open immigration policies. Canada’s largest immigrant populations come from Asian countries, while in the US, Asians make up a large portion of those immigrating, but the largest percentage is those from Latin America. It is interesting that going forward with immigration policy the US is known as the ‘melting pot’ while Canada calls itself a ‘mosaic’ Economic Sphere The differences between the US and Canada are most apparent when comparing their economies and capital. According to the World Bank’s 2017 report, the United States has a higher gross domestic product per capita at $59,531.7, while Canada’s is $45,032, and the exchange rate between currencies in s about $1.30 of Canadian dollars for every US dollar. ("GDP per capita (current US$) | Data", 2018; "Convert US Dollars to Canadian Dollars - Exchange Rates", 2018).

At first glance, one may say that the US economy and standard of living is higher but in taking a closer look there are pros and cons to each country's economic status. Canada supports a much less diverse economy from oil and lumber, while US is a manufacturing powerhouse, and in spite of growing similar grain-based crops, 44% of the land in the US is viable for agriculture whereas in Canada it's only about 7%. The US exports $1.4 trillion goods. Canada’s imports and exports are fairly equitable while US imports way more than it exports. Canada has a higher unemployment rate, but the US has higher rate of people living under the poverty line. As is evident in many of these statistics, both countries’ economies exemplify strengths and weaknesses.

Now looking at the markets and labor forces in Canada and the US, we observe that there are distinguishing factors of each country. This is particularly true in e-commerce and internet laws in Canada. Because of heavy licensing restrictions, Canada does not allow Spotify or Pandora, and has a very limited selection of programs on Netflix. E-commerce, in general, is less developed, with few stores even offering websites for online shopping, and Canadian Amazon holding a more limited selection of items. The US, on the other hand, has an ever-growing online economy. “During an April 2017 survey, 40 percent of internet users in the United States stated that they purchased items online at several times per month, and 20 percent said they bought items or services online on a weekly basis.” (Facts, 2018) As far as the labor force is concerned, Americans are known for working longer and later than Canadians. In the US, the average workweek is 47 hours and in Canada the workweek is 36-40 hours and at the minimum 2 weeks of paid vacation.

Canadian women in the workforce receive at least 15 weeks of paid maternity leave mandated by the government. In the United States many states mandate vacation time and maternity leave but don’t require that this time be paid and, in some cases, don’t require this time at all. As mentioned previously, socialized healthcare is a major distinguishing factor that sets Canada apart from the United States. The Healthcare Act of 1984 aimed to ensure that all residents of Canada have access to necessary hospital and physician services based on five principles: universality, portability, public administration, accessibility, and comprehensiveness. ("The Canada Health Act", 2018). Canadians do still have to pay for things like prescription drugs, home care, and prescription eyeglasses.

Canadians also live an average of 2 years longer than Americans, with average life expectancy for Canadian women at 82.3 years and 79.3 years for men. American women, on average live to be 80.8 years and 75.6 years for men. While there are many compounding factors that could contribute to this, like lower levels of obesity, or increased physical activity, socialized healthcare has been reported to be a contributing factor in the longer life span. Sociocultural Sphere Lastly, the sociocultural sphere can be used to contrast the United States and Canada, with differing traditions, dialects and colloquialisms, and subtle cultural nuances.

A nation’s overall culture can be broken up into many subcategories, but the following will discuss how language, and cultural celebrations and traditions distinguish Canada from the United state. First, Language is one of the most infamous ways Canadians and Americans claim they can tell each other apart. While the majority of each population speak English, the second most popular languages in each country are distinct and point to different colonial and immigration histories. The US technically does not have an official language, however in every state majority of government sponsored programs use English. Depending on the area of the US one is in effects the other languages that are present. For example, in Clark County, Nevada, (where Las Vegas is located) voter ballots are available in English, Spanish and Tagalog because Las Vegas contains large populations of Hispanic and Filipino residents. For the most part, Spanish appears to be a common second language with the high volume of immigrants from Latin America. In Canada on the other hand, English and French are both official languages, representative of the colonial background of Canada, as well as the federal government's relationship with the province of Quebec. Along with the languages spoken, come the differences in dialects, accents and slang relative to the English spoken in each country. Canada use different spelling for words that contain an ‘or’ sound: colour, favourite, labour.

The second cultural facet that distinguishes Canada and the US are the celebrations and traditions. Thanksgiving in Canada occurs on the second Monday of October however, most people celebrate it on Sunday and take the Monday off school and work. The holiday celebrates the harvests and blessings of the past year and is celebrate earlier because of Canada’s shorter growing season and earlier harvest. American Thanksgiving it is the fourth Thursday in November and celebrates the harvest and the legend of “peace between pilgrims and Native peoples”. Another interesting facet of national celebration is that Canada Day and US Independence Day are only three days apart (July 1st to July 4th) and are both celebrated with traditions like barbeques, parades, and fireworks. (Youtube, 2018).

Food is an essential tenet of not only celebrations but life in general. While the food in both countries is fairly similar accounting for a few distinct delicacies like all-dressed chips, and poutine in Canada, there is one major difference between the US and Canada-- the legal drinking age. In Canada, the drinking age is determined by the local government, with legal age being 19 in the majority of the country, but in Alberta, Manitoba, and Quebec young adults can start drinking at 18. In America, the National Minimum Drinking Age Act of 1984 and is a federal policy that establishes 21 as the legal age. (Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction, 2018). In short, Canada and the United States, while they have a long history of peace, are distinct in government, economy, and culture.

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Home — Essay Samples — Geography & Travel — Canada — The Culture of Canada

The Culture of Canada

• Categories: Canada Cultural Identity

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Published: Dec 18, 2018

Words: 854 | Pages: 2 | 5 min read

Works Cited:

• Amnesty.org. (2013, August 6). Pussy Riot jailed for hooliganism. https://www.amnesty.org.uk/press-releases/pussy-riot-jailed-hooliganism
• BBC News. (2013, August 23). Pussy Riot: Russian Orthodox Church forgives group. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-23837331
• Collins Dictionary. (2019). Hooliganism definition and meaning.
• European Convention on Human Rights. (1950). Article 10 - Freedom of expression.
• Oxford University Press. (2019). Censorship.
• Reporters Without Borders. (2019). World Press Freedom Index 2019.
• Spangler, T. (2019, May 1). What is the FCC, and what does it regulate? Variety. https://variety.com/2019/digital/news/what-is-the-fcc-1203199331/
• Stern, M. (2017). Sounds like censored: the suppression of dissent in the art world. ABC-CLIO.
• Wiggins, T. (2014). Censorship in Vietnam: Brave New World. Routledge.
• Wittern-Keller, L., & Shachar, H. (Eds.). (2010). Freedom of speech: documents decoded. ABC-CLIO.

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Writing the English Essay

Understanding the english essay.

• Understanding The English Essay
• Developing a Topic and Thesis for an English Essay
• Drafting the English Essay
• Using Secondary Sources in an English Essay
• Glossary of Common Formal Elements of Literature
• Documenting Sources in MLA Style (Modern Languages Association)

What is an English Essay?

The formal elements of literary works, considering theme, considering the formal elements and theme.

An English essay is an organized and analytical discussion and interpretation of a work or works of literature in English. There are many approaches to writing the English essay, but most start with you closely and actively reading, responding to and thinking about the text(s) being written about. You, the reader and essay writer, must ask and try to answer questions about what the work means, how it makes meaning, and how the author’s choices affect meaning. An English essay is built around what the essay writer thinks about the text(s), and the most important evidence and support in the essay will come from the texts themselves. Many English essays, then, are not research essays and require no use of secondary sources.

There are many approaches to the study of literature. We can

• consider the work in relation to its background or in relation to its author or its original readers or viewers
• think about and reflect on the themes in the work
• consider how the work is constructed and how it creates the effects it does
• read from a particular theoretical perspective
• examine the work in terms of its genre.

When we write an English essay, we, can approach the work or works in different ways. We might

• consider what the work means
• consider why the author made a particular choice
• consider what the central theme(s) of the work are
• analyze how parts of the work relate to the theme or themes
• consider the "craft" of the author (the author's use of language).

Many English essays analyze how the formal elements of a literary text work together to create meaning or affect the reader. The term formal element is used here to refer to the different techniques and tools writers have at their disposal. Essay writers must pay attention to the ways authors can arrange and pattern words, their medium, to create effect.

Often the essay topics assigned by professors focus on these formal elements; for example

• “What is the relationship between setting and character in 'The Painted Door'?"
• “How does the imagery of 'The Waste Land' contribute to our understanding of its themes?”

For a helpful explanation of the most common formal elements you will encounter in a literature course, see the Glossary of Formal Elements.

When an essay focuses on a literary work’s theme or themes, it is focusing on the major or central ideas that the work seems to be considering or expressing. The assumption is that a work of literature is about ideas and preoccupations of the “real world,” and through its story, plot, characterization and formal elements, it not only entertains but is saying something meaningful and important about central preoccupations all people share: Love, Duty, Right, Wrong, Justice, Friendship, Death, God etc. Literary works may also be thematically concerned with political, social, religious and psychological concerns of the work's particular place and time.

English essays often seek to uncover and clarify what the major themes in a text are and what the writer seems to be saying about them. When we study and write about a literary work, we may study it for theme, but we must also look at how a work's themes are being expressed and conveyed with the tools, the formal elements, unique to literature and the particular literary genre or form.

Remember, writers love words and what they can do with them. In a literary work, the words have been chosen and arranged to make meaning, create effect, and to make you feel, think, and interpret. The best English essays never forget that the plot, characters, setting etc do not really exist but have been created by the writer using words arranged in certain ways and using all the tools at their disposal (the formal elements) to create effect and express meaning (themes).

Other English essays have an even broader focus than the formal elements of a particular work in relation to its theme or themes. They may focus on the relationship among works by an author, or the relationships between the author’s life and work or the political, historical, or social context of the work(s).

It is important to be aware of what you are doing or what your assigned topic is asking you to do. If your topic’s focus is on the formal elements of a work or its theme(s), your primary, perhaps only, source will be the work; for essays with a broader focus, secondary sources may be necessary.

Your last-minute guide to Monday's total solar eclipse

A total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , offering millions a rare opportunity to see afternoon skies temporarily darken as the moon blocks the face of the sun.

Tune into NBC News NOW as Lester Holt hosts a two-hour special at 2 p.m. ET Monday from Indianapolis Motor Speedway.

The eclipse's path fortuitously cuts across Mexico, 15 U.S. states and a small part of eastern Canada. In all other states in the continental U.S., viewers will be treated to a partial solar eclipse, with the moon appearing to take a bite out of the sun and obscuring part of its light.

Here’s everything you need to know about the rare celestial event.

What is a solar eclipse?

Solar eclipses occur when the sun, moon and Earth align. The moon passes between Earth and sun, temporarily blocking the sun’s light and casting a shadow on Earth.

A total solar eclipse is when the moon fully obscures the sun, whereas a partial solar eclipse means it blocks just a portion of the sun’s face.

Solar eclipses occur only with the new moon. Because the moon’s orbit around Earth is tilted, the three bodies don’t always line up in a way that creates an eclipse.

“Imagine if the moon’s orbit were in the plane of Earth’s orbit around the sun — if that were the case, then every new moon, you’d have a total solar eclipse and every full moon, you’d have a lunar eclipse,” Neil DeGrasse Tyson, director of the Hayden Planetarium at the American Museum of Natural History, told NBC News. “So, because things don’t always align, it lends to the rarity of the event and the specialness of the event.”

Where and when will the eclipse be visible?

This year’s eclipse will follow a slightly wider path over more populated areas of the continental U.S. than other total solar eclipses have in the recent past.

NASA estimates that 31.6 million people live within what’s known as the path of totality, where the total solar eclipse will be visible. An additional 150 million people live within 200 miles of the path, according to the agency.

The path travels through Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine. Tiny parts of Michigan and Tennessee will also be able to witness totality if conditions are clear.

After the eclipse crosses into Canada, it will pass over southern Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island and Cape Breton, at the eastern end of Nova Scotia.

Those outside the path of totality can still take part in the astronomical event by viewing a partial solar eclipse — visible throughout all 48 states of the contiguous U.S. — or a NASA livestream.

The timing, including how long totality lasts, depends on the location, but some spots will see the moon fully cover the sun for up to 4 minutes and 28 seconds.

Below is a list of timings for some cities along the path of totality, as  provided by NASA . A number of other resources, including NationalEclipse.com  and  TimeandDate.com , can also help people plan.

• Dallas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:23 p.m. CT and totality at 1:40 p.m.
• Little Rock, Arkansas: Partial eclipse begins at 12:33 p.m. CT and totality at 1:51 p.m.
• Cleveland: Partial eclipse begins at 1:59 p.m. ET and totality at 3:13 p.m.
• Buffalo, New York: Partial eclipse begins at 2:04 p.m. ET and totality at 3:18 p.m.
• Lancaster, New Hampshire: Partial eclipse begins at 2:16 p.m. ET and totality at 3:27 p.m.

How to safely view a solar eclipse

It is never safe to gaze directly at the sun, even when it is partly or mostly covered by the moon. Special eclipse glasses or  pinhole projectors  are required to safely view solar eclipses and prevent eye damage. Failing to take the proper precautions can result in severe eye injury,  according to NASA .

Eclipse glasses are thousands of times darker than normal sunglasses and specially made to enable wearers to look at the sun during these kinds of celestial events.

Sky-watchers should also never view any part of the sun through binoculars, telescopes or camera lenses unless they have specific solar filters attached. Eclipse glasses should not be used with these devices, as they will not provide adequate protection.

However, during the few minutes of totality, when the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to look with the naked eye.

Beware of fake eclipse glasses. On legitimate pairs, the lenses should have a silver appearance on the front and be black on the inside. The manufacturer’s name and address should be clearly labeled, and they should not be torn or punctured. Check, as well, for the ISO logo and the code “IS 12312-2” printed on the inside.

If you don’t have eclipse glasses, you can make a homemade pinhole projector, which lets sunlight in through a small hole, focuses it and projects it onto a piece of paper, wall or other surface to create an image of the sun that is safe to look at. 

All you need is two pieces of white cardboard or plain white paper, aluminum foil and a pin or thumbtack. Cut a 1- to 2-inch square or rectangle out of the center of a piece of white paper or cardboard. Tape aluminum foil over that cut-out shape, then use a pin or thumbtack to poke a tiny hole in the foil.

During the eclipse, place a second piece of white paper or cardboard on the ground as a screen and hold the projector with the foil facing up and your back to the sun. Adjusting how far you hold the projector from the second piece of paper will alter the size of the image on the makeshift screen.

What to look for while viewing the total solar eclipse

For people along the path of totality, there are some fun milestones to keep track of as the total solar eclipse unfolds.

As the eclipse progresses and the sun gets thinner in the sky, it will start to get eerily dark, according to Tyson.

When the last beams of sunlight are about to become obscured, look out for the “diamond ring effect”: The sun’s atmosphere will appear as an illuminated halo, and the last light still visible will look like the diamond of a giant ring.

As the sunlight decreases even further, an effect known as Baily’s beads will be created by the moon’s rugged terrain. Tiny “beads” of light will be visible for only a few seconds around the dark moon, as the last bits of sunlight peer through the moon’s mountains and valleys.

When the moon is fully blocking the sun, it is safe to remove eclipse glasses and look at the total solar eclipse with the naked eye.

Some lucky sky-watchers may even catch a glimpse of a comet .

Comet 12P/Pons-Brooks — nicknamed the “ devil comet ” because an eruption last year left it with two distinct trails of gas and ice in the shape of devil horns — is currently visible from the Northern Hemisphere as it swings through the inner solar system.

The comet can be seen in the early evenings by gazing toward the west-northwest horizon. During the eclipse, when skies darken during totality, it may be possible to see the comet near Jupiter, but its visibility will depend on whether it’s in the middle of an outburst and thus brighter than normal.

Most likely, all eyes will be on the alignment of the moon and sun.

“Most people won’t even notice,” Tyson said. “But if you know to look, it’s there.”

When is the next solar eclipse?

The next total solar eclipse will be in 2026, but it will mostly pass over the Arctic Ocean, with some visibility in Greenland, Iceland, Portugal and northern Spain. In 2027, a total solar eclipse will be visible in Spain and a swath of northern Africa.

The next total solar eclipse visible from North America will be in 2033, but only over Alaska. Then in 2044, a total solar eclipse will cross Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, parts of Canada and Greenland.

The next total solar eclipse to cross the continental U.S. coast-to-coast in will occur in 2045. The path of totality for that eclipse will cut through California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Georgia and Florida.

Denise Chow is a reporter for NBC News Science focused on general science and climate change.

Lucas Thompson is a content producer for the NBC News Climate Unit.

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Guest Essay

The Problem With Saying ‘Sex Assigned at Birth’

By Alex Byrne and Carole K. Hooven

Mr. Byrne is a philosopher and the author of “Trouble With Gender: Sex Facts, Gender Fictions.” Ms. Hooven is an evolutionary biologist and the author of “T: The Story of Testosterone, the Hormone That Dominates and Divides Us.”

As you may have noticed, “sex” is out, and “sex assigned at birth” is in. Instead of asking for a person’s sex, some medical and camp forms these days ask for “sex assigned at birth” or “assigned sex” (often in addition to gender identity). The American Medical Association and the American Psychological Association endorse this terminology; its use has also exploded in academic articles. The Cleveland Clinic’s online glossary of diseases and conditions tells us that the “inability to achieve or maintain an erection” is a symptom of sexual dysfunction, not in “males,” but in “people assigned male at birth.”

This trend began around a decade ago, part of an increasing emphasis in society on emotional comfort and insulation from offense — what some have called “ safetyism .” “Sex” is now often seen as a biased or insensitive word because it may fail to reflect how people identify themselves. One reason for the adoption of “assigned sex,” therefore, is that it supplies respectful euphemisms, softening what to some nonbinary and transgender people, among others, can feel like a harsh biological reality. Saying that someone was “assigned female at birth” is taken to be an indirect and more polite way of communicating that the person is biologically female. The terminology can also function to signal solidarity with trans and nonbinary people, as well as convey the radical idea that our traditional understanding of sex is outdated.

The shift to “sex assigned at birth” may be well intentioned, but it is not progress. We are not against politeness or expressions of solidarity, but “sex assigned at birth” can confuse people and creates doubt about a biological fact when there shouldn’t be any. Nor is the phrase called for because our traditional understanding of sex needs correcting — it doesn’t.

This matters because sex matters. Sex is a fundamental biological feature with significant consequences for our species, so there are costs to encouraging misconceptions about it.

Sex matters for health, safety and social policy and interacts in complicated ways with culture. Women are nearly twice as likely as men to experience harmful side effects from drugs, a problem that may be ameliorated by reducing drug doses for females. Males, meanwhile, are more likely to die from Covid-19 and cancer, and commit the vast majority of homicides and sexual assaults . We aren’t suggesting that “assigned sex” will increase the death toll. However, terminology about important matters should be as clear as possible.

More generally, the interaction between sex and human culture is crucial to understanding psychological and physical differences between boys and girls, men and women. We cannot have such understanding unless we know what sex is, which means having the linguistic tools necessary to discuss it. The Associated Press cautions journalists that describing women as “female” may be objectionable because “it can be seen as emphasizing biology,” but sometimes biology is highly relevant. The heated debate about transgender women participating in female sports is an example ; whatever view one takes on the matter, biologically driven athletic differences between the sexes are real.

When influential organizations and individuals promote “sex assigned at birth,” they are encouraging a culture in which citizens can be shamed for using words like “sex,” “male” and “female” that are familiar to everyone in society, as well as necessary to discuss the implications of sex. This is not the usual kind of censoriousness, which discourages the public endorsement of certain opinions. It is more subtle, repressing the very vocabulary needed to discuss the opinions in the first place.

A proponent of the new language may object, arguing that sex is not being avoided, but merely addressed and described with greater empathy. The introduction of euphemisms to ease uncomfortable associations with old words happens all the time — for instance “plus sized” as a replacement for “overweight.” Admittedly, the effects may be short-lived , because euphemisms themselves often become offensive, and indeed “larger-bodied” is now often preferred to “plus sized.” But what’s the harm? No one gets confused, and the euphemisms allow us to express extra sensitivity. Some see “sex assigned at birth” in the same positive light: It’s a way of talking about sex that is gender-affirming and inclusive .

The problem is that “sex assigned at birth”— unlike “larger-bodied”— is very misleading. Saying that someone was “assigned female at birth” suggests that the person’s sex is at best a matter of educated guesswork. “Assigned” can connote arbitrariness — as in “assigned classroom seating” — and so “sex assigned at birth” can also suggest that there is no objective reality behind “male” and “female,” no biological categories to which the words refer.

Contrary to what we might assume, avoiding “sex” doesn’t serve the cause of inclusivity: not speaking plainly about males and females is patronizing. We sometimes sugarcoat the biological facts for children, but competent adults deserve straight talk. Nor are circumlocutions needed to secure personal protections and rights, including transgender rights. In the Supreme Court’s Bostock v. Clayton County decision in 2020, which outlawed workplace discrimination against gay and transgender people, Justice Neil Gorsuch used “sex,” not “sex assigned at birth.”

A more radical proponent of “assigned sex” will object that the very idea of sex as a biological fact is suspect. According to this view — associated with the French philosopher Michel Foucault and, more recently, the American philosopher Judith Butler — sex is somehow a cultural production, the result of labeling babies male or female. “Sex assigned at birth” should therefore be preferred over “sex,” not because it is more polite, but because it is more accurate.

This position tacitly assumes that humans are exempt from the natural order. If only! Alas, we are animals. Sexed organisms were present on Earth at least a billion years ago, and males and females would have been around even if humans had never evolved. Sex is not in any sense the result of linguistic ceremonies in the delivery room or other cultural practices. Lonesome George, the long-lived Galápagos giant tortoise , was male. He was not assigned male at birth — or rather, in George’s case, at hatching. A baby abandoned at birth may not have been assigned male or female by anyone, yet the baby still has a sex. Despite the confusion sown by some scholars, we can be confident that the sex binary is not a human invention.

Another downside of “assigned sex” is that it biases the conversation away from established biological facts and infuses it with a sociopolitical agenda, which only serves to intensify social and political divisions. We need shared language that can help us clearly state opinions and develop the best policies on medical, social and legal issues. That shared language is the starting point for mutual understanding and democratic deliberation, even if strong disagreement remains.

What can be done? The ascendance of “sex assigned at birth” is not an example of unhurried and organic linguistic change. As recently as 2012 The New York Times reported on the new fashion for gender-reveal parties, “during which expectant parents share the moment they discover their baby’s sex.” In the intervening decade, sex has gone from being “discovered” to “assigned” because so many authorities insisted on the new usage. In the face of organic change, resistance is usually futile. Fortunately, a trend that is imposed top-down is often easier to reverse.

Admittedly, no one individual, or even a small group, can turn the lumbering ship of English around. But if professional organizations change their style guides and glossaries, we can expect that their members will largely follow suit. And organizations in turn respond to lobbying from their members. Journalists, medical professionals, academics and others have the collective power to restore language that more faithfully reflects reality. We will have to wait for them to do that.

Meanwhile, we can each apply Strunk and White’s famous advice in “The Elements of Style” to “sex assigned at birth”: omit needless words.

Alex Byrne is a professor of philosophy at M.I.T. and the author of “Trouble With Gender: Sex Facts, Gender Fictions.” Carole K. Hooven is an evolutionary biologist, a nonresident senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, an associate in the Harvard psychology department, and the author of “T: The Story of Testosterone, the Hormone That Dominates and Divides Us.”

The Times is committed to publishing a diversity of letters to the editor. We’d like to hear what you think about this or any of our articles. Here are some tips . And here’s our email: [email protected] .

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Indonesia's annual exodus starts ahead of Eid al-Fitr festivities

Aditya Nugraha, a 21-year-old Indonesian, was travelling from the capital city of Jakarta to his hometown of Palembang on Sumatra island, over 500 km (310 miles) away, to celebrate the Islamic holiday of Eid al-Fitr this week.

Late Night Essay

A young boy is behind on his essay assignment and is trying to get it done late in the night. The boy ends up falling asleep and his essay prompt is revealed to the audience by the events th... Read all A young boy is behind on his essay assignment and is trying to get it done late in the night. The boy ends up falling asleep and his essay prompt is revealed to the audience by the events that proceed in the boys dream. A young boy is behind on his essay assignment and is trying to get it done late in the night. The boy ends up falling asleep and his essay prompt is revealed to the audience by the events that proceed in the boys dream.

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English Language in Canada Essay

Basic concepts, world ‘englishes’, dialect geography, ‘cane’ autonomy and homogeneity, cane phonetics and phonology, apparent-time and real-time.

Language is a coherent organization of sounds that has meaning. The sounds are organized into sentences and words that are used in communication. Each language has a system of rules called grammar that allows an individual to create and understand speech or gestures.

The English language shows remarkable differences in terms of phonetics, phonology, dialect, syntax, and lexis or semantics. Phonetics is an acoustic concept that describes how people perceive and produce sounds or utterances. Pronunciations of similar words usually differ among the Canadian, British, and American English speakers. Phonology, on the other hand, is the way language sounds are organized into a pattern.

A language is also described by its morphology, i.e., the relations between sounds and words. Words are built from many morphemes that give them a grammatical meaning. The words are the building blocks of sentences or phrases. Sentence construction must conform to a set of rules called syntax. A language’s syntax dictates the arrangement or order of the subject, verb, and object in a sentence. In the English language, word order in a sentence determines its meaning.

The English spoken in Canada differs from the American and British varieties in terms of semantics and lexis. Semantics describe the actual meaning of a word, expressions, or sentence. A change in the word order in a sentence affects its semantic meaning. Lexis is a word used in a language as a vocabulary.

It has no grammatical meaning, but can be used in idioms or metaphors. Context has a big influence on the way people interpret or pronounce English words. It gives rise to dialect, which is the variety of English language spoken in a particular region or culture. Dialects differ in terms of pronunciation, vocabulary, and sentence structure.

Word forms vary depending on region or culture. This gives rise to multiple language varieties or native dialects. However, the words of the Standard English language remain unchanged with time or place. It is autonomous and homogeneous relative to other varieties. In linguistics, real-time change describes how language develops within a given period. On the other hand, apparent-time change is the linguistic difference that exists between the two generations.

Globally, the English language differs from one region to another. This gives rise to a number of distinctive English varieties native to different places. Standard English differs from regional dialects as it is unaffected by time or geography. It also exhibits linguistic autonomy and homogeneity.

Key linguistic variables distinguish English varieties. For example, the variants of ‘-ing’ can be ‘in’ or ‘ing’. Both the variants and the Standard English are social constructs and thus, depend on the local culture or region. English is classified as native (first or ENL), second (second or ESL), or foreign (EFL) language depending on the region.

The division of English shows the different linguistic varieties spoken globally. Thus, the world ‘Englishes’ are the creoles, pidgins, or varieties derived from the English language. They differ from Standard English because they are unofficial. Pidgin is a language that emerges out of a need to communicate verbally.

It has simple grammar and phonology to ease communication. In contrast, a Creole is a language that develops from Pidgin English. It is usually the language spoken by native speakers or descendants of Pidgin speakers. They have words that are absent in the pidgins. The native speakers modify Pidgin transforming it into a Creole, such as the Jamaican English.

Pidgins borrow from different dominant languages spoken in a region. The lexis of a Pidgin often has a European origin, while its syntax borrows from local languages. On the other hand, creoles originate from the interactions between people who speak nonstandard English and native language speakers. A standard language follows clear grammatical rules and has wide acceptance. It is usually the language of conducting business globally.

It also has vocabularies codified in a dictionary. Language standards constitute the enforceable rules that may be prescriptive or descriptive in nature. Over a third of the people in Canada speak the Standard Canadian English while the rest of the population is either multilingual or Anglophone.

On the other hand, nonstandard English encompasses all the varieties that are only useful in particular social contexts. In general, the world ’Englishes’ fall into three categories: norm-receiving (Russia), norm providing (UK and US), and norm-developing (India).

It describes the study of the various dialects in a region. Dialect geography involves two main approaches: the written questionnaire and interview method. The interview method involves both direct and indirect questions to find the local names for common items. The three subtypes of queries an interviewer can ask include naming, completing, and ‘reverse’ questions.

The interviewers ask people how they would pronounce particular phrases in their local dialect. This allows them to establish the dialectical lexemes common to language varieties in other geographical regions.

With regard to the written questionnaire method, respondents indicate how they pronounce certain words in their region. The aim is to identify grammatical features and sounds they use. The informants of dialectic geography include the Linguistic Atlas of New England (LAUSC) and the NORMs (Non-educated Old Rural Males).

NORMs involve trained informants who collect data from different countries regarding the pronunciations of the locals. The pre-sociolinguistic era informants are categorized into type I, II, and III, which include those with little, medium, and high level of literacy respectively. The informants also fall into two other categories, namely, Type A (aged) and Type B (middle-age).

Diachronic linguistics indicates that the lingual features of the language spoken in ‘rhotic’ (pronounced in a word) regions like Edinburg and Dublin are conservative. In contrast, people from ‘non-rhotic’ areas such as London use prestigious innovations. Speakers in Australia also use innovations.

Isoglosses demarcate the geographical regions where speakers use a certain linguistic feature. They are lines drawn on a map to distinguish rhotic speakers (North American accent) from non-rhotic ones (British pronunciation). Isogloss patterns have different meanings. When the two isoglosses intersect, it means that the language features spread in a wavelike fashion to produce distinct regional varieties. Thus, these regions have different linguistic features.

An isogloss bundle can also arise in a map. It occurs when many isoglosses lie together to mark distinct dialects of a region. Isogloss bundles are a product of cultural and geographic factors that limit the usage of innovations. Population movements cause changes in language features through interactions. Large cities are often the source of innovations, which spread to neighboring areas.

Speakers of standard Canadian English are the middle-class Anglophones residing in urban areas. The speakers have a standard Canadian accent. The morphology, pronunciation, and syntax of the Standard English are unique to Canada. Statistics indicate that the middle-class urban dwellers constitute 36 percent of the Canadian population. This population constitutes the speakers of the standard Canadian English.

Canadian English borrows heavily from the American and British ones. Its hybrid nature makes it unique and distinctive in terms of pronunciation and vocabulary. For instance, the way Americans pronounce the word ‘town’ is different from how Canadians do it. Another distinction relates to word spelling.

Words like color and center take British spellings in Canadian English. Americans and Canadians also use different words to refer to the same thing. For example, a restroom in America is called a washroom in Canada. Although Canadian English has a unique identity, the linguistic features are similar to those of the British and American varieties.

The unique identity has given rise to a characteristic Canadian English. It is easy to distinguish Americans and Ontarians based on their speech because of clear differences in word choice and accent. This implies that Canadian English is distinct from that of the Americans or the British. However, since it has no unique linguistic features, the language cannot be described as autonomous. It is a hybrid of the American and British English and thus, heterogeneous in terms of linguistic features.

Canadian English is relatively homogeneous compared to the British or the American one. Young Canadians, irrespective of their geographic location, use the dialect in their speech. The homogeneity of the language only applies to Standard Canadian English. Rural varieties, including the vernaculars spoken in Alberta, the Maritimes, and Newfoundland province, exhibit a huge variability from one place to another.

The middle-class people of Vancouver, Victoria, and Quebec speak a similar standard Canadian English. Standard English is homogeneous across different regions and age groups. Young Canadians in these regions use it in their speech. In addition, authors and other writers use standard Canadian English in books and magazine articles.

Canadian lexis describes the words that are unique to Canada. Examples include the Canadian words like ‘eh’ and ‘pop’, which correspond to ‘huh’ and ‘soda’ in the American English respectively. Some Canadian words have British origins and thus, different from the American vocabulary.

This contradicts the assertion that the isogloss between America and Canada is fast disappearing. Examples of such words include Chesterfield, tap, and eves-troughs. Historical experiences determine the lexical variation. Canadians’ history and heritage are distinct from those of Americans, French, or Germans in terms of trade and commerce. Historical events are recorded using words unique to Canada. Such historical words, their spelling, and meaning are explained in the Canadian English dictionaries.

Lexicography is a hybrid of linguistics and philology. A country’s lexis not only encompasses its unique words, but also their sounds or pronunciation. The Canadian accent is different from the American and British ones. Moreover, some words in Canadian English have no British or American origins.

Words used to describe geographical features, animals, and plants are peculiar to Canada. In addition, the Canadians describe cultural, social, and political activities using words that are absent in the American or British dictionaries. Dictionaries contain words native to a particular region and thus, words unique to Canada may lack in a British or an American dictionary.

In this regard, the Canadian lexis gives rise to ‘Canadianism’, which is comparable to Americanism in the United States. ‘Canadianism’ describes the words or phrases that are unique to Canada. Although such words dominate Canadian conversations, people outside Canada may also use them.

An example is a Chesterfield or couch, which in America is often called a sofa. ‘Canadianisms’ are of six types, namely, original words like ‘garburator’, preserved phrases, altered semantics (Chesterfield), common expressions (washroom), memorial, and culturally significant language.

Canadian lexis also shows regional variation due to the existence of many dialects in different parts of the country. Nevertheless, the existence of words and phrases that are uniquely Canadian is the basis for ‘Canadianism.’ The meaning of such words is also unique to Canada. Since such words or phrases have evolved within Canada, they are rarely used outside the country.

The term phonetics describes the expression of sounds in a language or dialect. Canadian English has a unique accent or pronunciation. On the other hand, phonology describes the speech sounds or phonemes common to a particular dialect. Unlike the British, Canadians raise two diphthongs when pronouncing vowel sounds, i.e., /a/ and /ai/ in words like houses and wives. ‘Canadian Raising’ (CR) of these diphthongs is evident when they occur before a voiceless consonant of a word.

The pronunciation of voiceless consonants does not cause the larynx to vibrate. Words like wife and house are voiceless and thus, ‘raised’ when uttered with a Canadian accent. On the other hand, the plurals of the same words, i.e., wives and houses, are voiced during pronunciation. CR is evident when Canadian utters words like milk, bat, progress, and silk, among others.

Canadian shift is another linguistic (phonetics) feature common among speakers in major cities like Montreal and Vancouver. Canadian shift is detected through the analysis of sounds to reveal subtle phonetic features of the speech. It affects vowels in words like ‘pan’ and ‘pen’.

In these words, the vowel /i/ shifts to /ǣ/ when pronounced with a Canadian dialect. However, the Canadian shift has no effect on vowels that occur before /g/, /n/, or /m/ in words like ‘bag’. The Canadian shift started in the northern cities before spreading to other areas. Its usage depends on gender and social class of the speaker. Thus, the Canadian shift is a social process whose changes can be tracked through apparent-time studies.

With regard to phonology, the Canadian pronunciation of /a/ and /ɔ/ in words like ‘palm’ and ‘thought’ respectively tends to merge into ‘a’. In the Canadian dialect, mergers before /r/ involve the back vowels in words like ‘tomorrow’, while in the American pronunciation it affects the front ones (e.g. marry).

Thus, a word like ‘sorry’ is pronounced differently in the American and Canadian dialects. Foreign pronunciations of the letter ‘a’ in words like ‘pasta’ and ‘llama’ also dominate the Canadian accent. Thus, unlike the American English, foreign pronunciations of /a/ have been integrated into the Canadian dialect.

Real-time studies describe the social development of a language over time. In contrast, apparent-time studies assess the linguistic variations that exist between the old and young generations. Differences in vowel sounds can arise in a country resulting in a distinct linguistic identity.

An example is in the Southern US where surveys (GRITS and PTS) reveal linguistic differences in terms of grammar and phonetics. Two types of surveys are used to determine real-time and apparent-time changes, namely, panel and trend studies. Apparent-time studies assess the usage of a particular linguistic feature by people of different age groups. In this way, it is easier to assess its variation across the age groups.

On the other hand, real-time studies the development of a linguistic feature through history. Real-time studies are important in historical linguistics because they trace the evolution of common expressions through history. In contrast, apparent-time studies reveal the distribution of words and expressions across the ages. For instance, the modal expression ‘have to’ is more common among teenagers (9 to 16 years old) than among people above 60 years. Apparent-time studies can also reveal sex-based and past linguistic changes. They also determine changes that have occurred in particular social networks.

Older changes are commonly associated with the gender of the speaker while newer features only emerge from distinct social networks. Apparent-time hypothesis applies to linguistic variables such as phonetics, pragmatics, and lexis in grownups. However, the model does not apply to the language used by teenagers and children. The apparent-time model classifies features that recur in all generations at a given time into age-graded changes.

Research indicates that the apparent-time model explains the changes that occur among adult speakers. In particular, changes in the grammar used by adults can be explained using the apparent-time model. However, it is unclear whether the model works for other linguistic variables.

Apparent-time data can be used to validate the findings of real-time studies, which examine the development of a language within a given period in history. However, the apparent-time model does not capture all the variables of a language as it changes through time (diachronic linguistics).

Texting represents a new genre of the written word. Developments in technology and mobile telephony contributed to the evolution of text messaging. Texting depends on the cultural context of the communicators. Thus, texting in the American context differs from that in Europe because of cultural differences. Text messages often reflect the linguistic features of the dominant language.

Mobile phones, besides being important devices in communication, have a cultural significance. A text message conveys important information about the cultural background of the sender. Moreover, the act of texting depends on age and generation of the user. Inbuilt linguistic symbols such as clippings and initials also influence texting.

In addition, features such as keypad letters and ringtones shape the way people compose texts, including the use of homonyms and other words. Texting has caused changes in the form and function of language. Language has four primary functions, namely, emotive, referential, social, and poetic roles.

The language used in texting depends on technological constraints and social contexts. The cost of sending the text also influences the orthography of a text message. The linguistic form of texting is often nonstandard because users usually use texts to express their creativity and playfulness.

Moreover, users often use a friendly tone when texting to others. Some common features of the texting language include reduced length, contractions, abbreviations, acronyms, and emoticons. Users often reduce the length of words, characters, or sentences when texting. Others exclude vowels in a word resulting in non-conventional abbreviations. Contractions used in texting are usually nonstandard and thus, peculiar to a particular region or age group.

Users also create homophones by combining words with numbers. Some texts contain non-standard spellings or local dialects that do not conform to specific grammatical rules. Common linguistic features of texting include dialogue (conversation), wordplay to express creativity and informality (chit chatting).

Texting is also more intimate than other forms of written communication. Its aim is to satisfy the intimate and communication needs of the users and thus, plays a role in strengthening social bonds. Texting also gives users a certain level of anonymity unseen in other communication forms.

• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

IvyPanda. (2020, March 21). English Language in Canada. https://ivypanda.com/essays/english-language-in-canada/

"English Language in Canada." IvyPanda , 21 Mar. 2020, ivypanda.com/essays/english-language-in-canada/.

IvyPanda . (2020) 'English Language in Canada'. 21 March.

IvyPanda . 2020. "English Language in Canada." March 21, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/english-language-in-canada/.

1. IvyPanda . "English Language in Canada." March 21, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/english-language-in-canada/.

Bibliography

IvyPanda . "English Language in Canada." March 21, 2020. https://ivypanda.com/essays/english-language-in-canada/.

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