The Differences Between American and British English I. Introductio

The Differences Between American and British English
    Good morning, everyone. Today we are going to talk about the differences between American and British English.(1)While there are certainly many more varieties of English, American English and British English are the two varieties that are taught in most programs of teaching non-native speakers. Generally, it is agreed that no one version is " correct" : however, there are certainly preferences in use. The three major differences between American and British English are: pronunciation, vocabulary, and spelling.
    (2)The most important rule of thumb is to try to be consistent in your usage. If you decide that you want to use American English spellings, then be consistent in your spelling. This is of course not always easy—or possible. The following guide is meant to point out the principal differences between these two varieties of English.
    Firstly, use of the present perfect in British English.(3)The present perfect is used to express an action that has occurred in the recent past and has an effect on the present moment. For example, I’ve lost my key. Can you help me look for it? In American English the following is also possible: I lost my key. Can you help me look for it? In British English the above would be considered incorrect. However, both forms are generally accepted in standard American English.
    Secondly, possession. There are two forms to express possession in English. Have or have got: Do you have a car? Have you got a car? He hasn’t got any friends. He doesn’t have any friends. While both forms are correct and accepted in both British and American English,(5)have got, have you got, he hasn’t got, etc. are generally the preferred forms in British English while most speakers of American English employ the have-, do you have, he doesn’t have, etc.
    Thirdly, vocabulary. Probably the major difference between British and American English lies in the choice of vocabulary. Some words mean different things in the two varieties, for example, mean: in American English—angry, bad humored, while in British English—not generous, tight fisted. There are many more examples, too many for me to list here.(6)If there is a difference in usage, your dictionary will note the different meanings in its definition of the term.(7)Many vocabulary items are also used in one form and not in the other. One of the best examples of this is the terminology used for automobiles.
    Fourthly, spelling. Here are some general differences between British and American spellings: Words ending in -or(American), -our(British), color, colour, humor, humour, flavor, flavour etc. Words ending in -ize(American), -ise(British), recognize, recognise, patronize, patronise, etc. The best way to make sure that you are being consistent in your spelling is to use the spell check on your word processor if you are using the computer and choosing which variety of English you would like.
    As you can see, there are really very few differences between standard British English and standard American English. However,(10)the largest difference is probably the choice of vocabulary and pronunciation. No matter which dialect you have chosen, you need to be consistent in the usage.
    Thanks for your attention.