Theoretical Approaches to English Language

Language of instruction is English.

The course provides students with a solid theoretical foundation in one or more of the core subfields of English linguistics. Topics may include phonology, morphology/lexicon, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, translation, among others. The aim of the course is to give students a broad base of knowledge and understanding in the relevant subfield, preparing students for potential further specialization at Master's level.

A more detailed description of the academic content will be available in the reading list at the beginning of the semester.

Knowledge

Candidates who have passed this course

• understand the theoretical aims and goals of the relevant subfield(s) of English linguistics
• are familiar with basic theoretical concepts and analytical tools used in the relevant subfield(s)
• have knowledge of some of the most important empirical data/phenomena explored by the theoretical approach(es) in question, as applied to English or English-speaking societies, and of some of the theoretical analyses or debates that these empirical data illuminate

Skills

Candidates who have passed this course

• can describe the theoretical aims and goals of the relevant subfield(s), possibly including discussion of contrasting approaches
• can apply the theoretical concepts and analytical tools used in the relevant subfield(s) to analyze/explain linguistic phenomena
• can begin to explore the primary research literature within the relevant subfield(s)

General competence

Candidates who have passed this course

• can apply a scientific approach to data
• can demonstrate analytical and critical skills

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 7.5 credit course equates with approximately 10 hours of work per week, including teaching time.

Compulsory assignments

1-3 written and/or oral assignments, equivalent to 2000-2500 words in total. Specific tasks will be defined at the start of the semester. Online quizzes may substitute for a portion of this.

Approved obligatory assignment is valid for 2 semesters (the semester in which the approval is given, plus the following semester). All portions of the obligatory assignment must be completed in the same semester.