This core module explores foundational concepts and issues in the study of English language and linguistics in preparation for the specialised subject pathways the students will follow in Years 2 and 3. In particular, the module focuses on the areas of phonetic/phonology, morphology and lexical semantics. Topics covered include how the sounds of a language pattern and how they can be described, how words enter the language and how they relate to one another and carry meaning.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the module students should be able to:
Describe the mechanisms of sound production in English and reflect on how the English sound system differs from other languages
Demonstrate an adequate level of competence in the use the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) for the transcription of language
Discuss some of the key phonological aspects of English
Demonstrate an awareness of morphological properties of words
Account for how new words enter the language
Describe how words are related and how they carry meaning