Leader: Dr Julie Bradshaw

Offered

Not offered in 2008

Synopsis

The unit examines the role of language in the construction of identity or identities, with a particular focus on gender identity. It examines the relationship between language, gender and the representation of masculinities and femininities, particularly in spoken texts. Topics covered include speech styles of women and men speaking in same sex and mixed sex groups, the issue of power and gender, sexuality, and women and men in their speech communities. In addition, language and identity construction will be examined in relation to nationality, ethnicity, religion, youth culture and second language learning.

Objectives

On successful completion of this unit, a student will be able to:

• Summarize key theoretical debates in relation to identity and language;
• Compare the approaches of theorists from different discipline backgrounds;
• Reflect on gender differences across languages in the light of theoretical and empirical studies;
• Evaluate major methodological approaches to the study of identity and language;
• Work in teams to apply at least one methodology to a selected context;
• Use data thus collected to support an argument in relation to theoretical debates;
• Present a coherent oral and written account of research thus conducted.

Assessment

Assignment (1500 words): 20%; Test (2 hours): 20%; Fieldwork project(2500 words): 30%; Essay (2500 words): 30%.

Contact hours

2 hour lecture/seminar (Day students only)