ENG101 English linguistics 1

Contents and structure

Linguistics 1 consists of two parts: phonetics and grammar. The course offers a general introduction to English phonetics. Attention will be given to the phonemes of English and their articulation. The students will also learn how to transcribe words and simple sentences using the International Phonetic Alphabet. The course aims to offer students an understanding of English grammar. This covers aspects of semantics, morphology and syntax, with an emphasis on word classes and their grammatical functions, as well as key aspects of phrase and clause structure and function.

The course includes a one-week stay at the Norwegian Study Centre, the University of York. The stay is not mandatory, and there will be alternative learning activities for those who are not going to York. Travel expenses, accommodation and course fees are paid by the students. Read more here: https://www.york.ac.uk/nsc/short-courses/.

Learning Outcome

Knowledge

The student

• has knowledge of the phonemes of English and their articulation and how the articulation of phonemes in words and utterances can influence each other
• has knowledge of IPA symbols
• has knowledge about word classes and their grammatical functions
• has basic knowledge of semantics and morphology
• understands the grammatical structure of phrases and clauses, and of grammatical terminology

Skills

The student

• is able to read and transcribe speech using IPA and use relevant terminology to describe English phonemes
• is able to analyse English at the word, phrase and clause level
• is able to use grammatical terminology to account for language usage
• is able to use English orally and in writing according to context and recipient
• is able to apply knowledge of the system of language in his/her own linguistic development

General competence

The student

• has the ability to develop his/her own linguistic and general English competence
• has insight into relevant topics within English grammar and phonetics
• has the ability to communicate orally and written in English according to context and recipient

Entry requirements

None

Recommended previous knowledge

None

Teaching methods

Teaching will consist of lectures, seminars, group work and individual work. The course requires systematic work with reading, tasks and exercises, and active participation in class. English is both the target language and the language of instruction, and all learning activities are in English. This offers invaluable language practice, and through active involvement in learning activities students will apply both language skills and knowledge of course content. The learning platform Canvas will be used to relay information, communicate with students and provide feedback on student work.

Compulsory learning activities

• Two individual written assignments

Specific guidelines for the compulsory learning activities will be given in the semester plan. Students are required to comply with requirements and deadlines.

Compulsory learning activities must be approved in order for the student to be allowed to sit the exam. If the compulsory learning activities are not approved, students will have one additional attempt, but a maximum of two attempts per compulsory learning activity per semester.

Approved compulsory learning activities are valid three semesters following the approval.

Assessment

Written school exam, 6 hours.

The grading scale used is A to F. Grade A is the highest possible grade on the grading scale, grade F is a fail.

Examination support material

None

More about examination support material