LIN3090 - Syntax: Grammatical Structure, Typology and Universals

Leader: Dr Anna Margetts

Offered

Not offered in 2008

Synopsis

This unit will cover the basic tools necessary for the study of syntax and will specifically focus on the linguistic analysis of the sentence in different languages. This study will be approached through the comparison of different systems of case marking, agreement, use of clitic pronouns, word order, topic-comment structure and other mechanisms that reveal the structure of the clause. Attention will be given to understanding basic concepts such as verb, transitive verb, passive subject and direct object and tense/aspect.

Objectives

As of LIN2090 and in addition a deeper understanding of theoretical issues relating to the study of syntax.

Assessment

Assignment 1: (ca. 1,200 words) 25%;
Assignment 2: (ca. 1,200 words) 25%;
Group presentation: (equiv. of 500 words) 10%;
Final exam: (equiv. of 1,500-1700 words) 40%;
Students at third year level will be required to answer some different questions in the test and will need to include greater theoretical depth in the essay.

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

A second-year sequence in Linguistics