Course content

Course content

Language of instruction is English.

This course provides an introduction to linguistics, the scientific study of language. The course focuses on English, and investigates the linguistic structure of English, varieties of English, language change, and the interaction of language and society. The course introduces students to the various subfields of theoretical linguistics - such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, the lexicon, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics - and how concepts from each of these subfields can be used to describe and analyze the English language. The course also considers how English is and has been used throughout history and the modern day, how the language originated, how it has spread throughout the globe, and the causes and consequences of its position as a global language.

Learning outcome

Learning outcomes

Knowledge

Candidates who have passed this course

• have an understanding of the scientific study of language, as both a structural and a social phenomenon
• have knowledge of basic concepts and terminology used to describe and analyze languages generally and English specifically
• are familiar with fundamental subfields of formal linguistics, such as phonetics, phonology, morphology, the lexicon, syntax, semantics, pragmatics; and with some characteristic linguistic phenomena of English within the subfields covered in the course
• are able to explain key aspects of the history, development, and global spread of the English language
• understand and are able to explain the various roles played by English in different communities both as a first and a second language
• know how to identify and describe differences between varieties of English concerning pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and orthography
• are able to discuss key social factors (e.g. age, gender, ethnicity, region) which affect English variation in global contexts

Skills

Candidates who have passed the course will be able to:

• apply linguistic terms and concepts to analyze English language data
• discuss and articulate how social factors shape English language variation
• compare English varieties in different global contexts, identifying patterns and distinctions in language use based on social categories like age, gender, ethnicity, and region
• read and comprehend undergraduate-level academic and scientific texts on topics in sociolinguistics, formal linguistics, and related fields

Learning methods and activities

Learning methods and activities

A combination of lectures, seminars, group activity, and/or supervision. Students are required to use the course learning platform regularly. Students should expect that this 15 credit course should equate to approximately 10 hours of work per week over both semesters, including teaching time.

Compulsory assignments

A collection of up to 6 written and/or oral assignments (over both semesters), equivalent to 2500-3000 words in total, potentially including a small independent research project. Quizzes on the course learning platform can substitute for a portion of this. Specific tasks will be defined at the start of the course.

Attendance at 60% of seminars.

Approved obligatory assignments, including the attendance requirement, are valid for the academic year (Autumn/Spring) they are approved in, plus the following academic year.

Compulsory assignments

• 60% mandatory attendance in seminars
• Up to 6 written and/or oral assignments, approx 2500-3000 words

Recommended previous knowledge

Recommended previous knowledge

Students should have knowledge of English equivalent to that of students who have learned English as a programme subject over two years at Norwegian "videregående skole".

Required previous knowledge

None.

Course materials

Course materials

Curriculum/reading list will be announced at the beginning of the semester.

Credit reductions