ATS1338 - The language game: Why do we talk the way we do? - 2017

Human beings spend much of their time playing the language game - small wonder Linguistics, the scientific investigation of language, is such a fast growing and important field of study. In this unit we examine aspects of this fascinating game in a systematic way. They include: the nature of the game (e.g. human versus animal communication, the structure of language); the players (e.g. language acquisition, language and thought); the game plan (e.g. strategies for interacting, politeness); variation in the game (e.g. social/regional varieties, jargon, slang); myths about the game (e.g. some languages are better/harder/more beautiful) and the changing game.

On successfully completing this subject students should be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of what linguistics is and what linguists do.
2. Identify and describe the nature of human language.
3. Discuss and analyse different varieties of language and language use.
4. Identify and analyse the ways in which language changes.
5. Observe and be sensitive to issues arising in linguistic interaction.
6. Explain the major processes of language acquisition.
7. Critically evaluate attitudes to language.

Within semester assessment: 60% + Exam: 40%

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. A unit requires on average three/four hours of scheduled activities per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

See also Unit timetable information

Dr Louisa Willoughby

Linguistics