Course Details in 2023/24 Session

Module Title	LC Introduction to Linguistics B: language change and variation
School	Lan, Cult, Art Hist & Music
Department	Modern Languages
Module Code	09 37021
Module Lead	Norma Schifano
Level	Certificate Level
Credits	10
Semester	Semester 2
Pre-requisites
Co-requisites	LC Introduction to Linguistics A: Science of Language - (09 37020)
Restrictions	None
Contact Hours	Lecture-5 hours Seminar-10 hours Guided independent study-85 hours Total: 100 hours
Exclusions
Description	What are the main dimensions along which a language can vary? What happens when two languages get in contact, in societies and within speakers’ minds? Can new languages be created, either naturally or artificially? Is it possible to influence the evolution of a language? Building on the topics covered in the first semester, these and further related questions will be tackled in this module by adopting a scientific apporach to the study of the human language faculty. Armed with this new knowledge, students will use the methodologies of linguistics to debunk a number of language myths which surround change and variation. Is it true that women talk more than men? Are the media really ruining English and is German more logical than Spanish? By reflecting on the available scientific evidence about these and related (mis-)conceptions about language, students will achieve a better understanding of the languages they speak, as well as of those they do not, and of our linguistic past and future.
Learning Outcomes	By the end of the module students should be able to: identify and discuss the key dimensions along which languages can vary; show comprehension of the possible effects of language change and variation, both within speakers’ minds and in society; discuss the role that speakers, linguists and/or institutions can play in shaping language use; critically appraise the validity of a number of commonly held beliefs about language on the basis of the available scientific evidence.
Assessment	37021-01 : Project & Oral Component : Coursework (100%)
Assessment Methods & Exceptions	Assessment: 1 x individual investigation project with an oral component, 2000 words equivalent in English (100%); Reassessment: Resubmission of failed element(s) in the Supplementary session
Other
Reading List