LIN2510

Structure of English

Mark Newbrook

8 points
* 3 hours per week
* First semester
* Clayton
* Prerequisites: LIN1010 and LIN1020 or ENH1030 and ENH1040

Objectives The objectives of this subjects are that students should understand the key notions used in the analysis of contemporary English syntax; understand the more important aspects of the relationship between syntax and meaning in English; be able to apply the notions covered in 1-2 (and to use the relevant terms accurately) in the analysis of `real' texts; be aware of some of the main theoretical disagreements between the major schools of linguistics as they bear on the analysis of English syntax; know the key syntactic (and syntactic-semantic) features which distinguish the main standard varieties of English from each other and from other important varieties; know the key syntactic (etc.) features which distinguish formal and informal usage; be aware of the place of English in respect of the main parameters of syntactic typology; have the basis for further study which would enable them to teach English grammar themselves

Synopsis This subject provides a step-by-step account of English grammar presented from the perspective of the latest theoretical advances in modern linguistics. It will examine the most important English constructions and categories at both a language particular level and at a general level with reference to language typology and universals. Topics include the parts of speech, tense, aspect and modality, clause type and coordination and subordination.

Assessment Written assignment (2000 words): 20%
* Class exercises: 40%
* Class test (2 hours): 30%
* Tutorial participation: 10%

Prescribed texts

Leech G and others English grammar for today: A new introduction Macmillan, 1982

Recommended texts

Huddleston R English grammar: An outline CUP, 1988