Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

This unit introduces German dialects and dialectology. The course will explore traditional methods (speech atlases, dialect maps) and structural dialectology, and provide students with a background in regional and historical dialectology. The students will also be introduced to contemporary dialectology: social dialects, dialect as a group identity marker (youth, age and gender), sociology of dialects with particular reference to dialect and central processes of societal change, dialect and standard language, and dialect and the education system.

Objectives

On successful completion of this subject students should be able to read and interpret traditional dialect maps and to use traditional dialect atlases effectively; have an working knowledge of the geographical distribution of German dialects; have a basic understanding of the role the German language plays in modern German society; relate this understanding of variation in German to their language acquisition experince. They will acquire have a better understanding of the diversity of the German language as a result of having contrasted dialects with standard German, and be equipped with a base for further studies in the area of German linguistics.

Assessment

Written work: (1800-2000 words, in German or English): 50%
Exam: 30%
Homework exercises: 20%

Chief examiner(s)

Dr Heinz Kreutz

Contact hours

3 hours (3 x seminars) per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

German studies

Prerequisites

Advanced German Studies 1, part 2 or above; or equivalent