LIN1010

Linguistics: language and communication A

Joanne Winter

6 points - 3 hours per week - First semester - Clayton

Objectives Students successfully completing this subject should have developed an understanding of what linguistics is and what linguists do, an ability to systematically describe linguistic phenomena using appropriate concepts and insights into language use and variation in socio-cultural contexts in language(s) one speaks and into languages not previously encountered.

Synopsis The aim of this subject is to introduce students to the study of linguistics and to the fundamental skills necessary for the analysis of language. In addition, the subject examines language use in academic communication (eg essay writing, research reports), spoken and written language and a number of language issues relevant to today's society. The topics covered include sociolinguistics (social aspects of language use), morphology (words), syntax (sentence structure), Australian Aboriginal languages, the organisation of conversation and issues of language and identity. The emphasis for this subject is the Australian context with examples drawn from Australian Aboriginal languages, Australian English, and languages other than English (LOTEs) spoken in Australia.

Assessment Written assignments (3500 words): 55% - Exam (1 hour): 40% - Tutorial participation: 5%

Prescribed texts

Finegan E and others Language: Its structure and use 2nd edn, HBJ, 1997

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