French linguistics

This is a theoretical course addressing central issues within French linguistics. Emphasis is placed on studying the interaction between syntax, semantics, and text linguistics. Work in both grammar and text linguistics aims to give students deeper theoretical knowledge and practical proficiency in modern French.

Knowledge

Candidates who have passed this course

• have insight into linguistic concepts and tools for grammatical analysis
• have specialised knowledge of French language and text structure
• are familiar with advanced contrasts between Norwegian and French
• can explain various ways of transforming and expanding French sentences (e.g., subordinate clauses, use of the conditional, passive and non-finite constructions)

Skills

Candidates who have passed this course,

• can use precise terminology to analyse sentences and texts
• can explain the interaction between syntactic structure and pragmatic factors, such as information structure in texts
• can apply contrastive knowledge of French and Norwegian to write clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex topics
• master various sentence structures and discourse/textual markers, both orally and in writing
• are able to critically reflect on linguistic analyses

General competence

Candidates who have passed this course,

• have developed the ability to conduct critical analysis
• can adapt texts to different communicative contexts
• are familiar with norms for academic language use

Teaching is carried out in collaboration between UiB and NTNU and is entirely online. Instruction is given in French.

The course consists of asynchronous digital lectures in the form of videos, as well as synchronous seminars (2 × 2 sessions over 8 weeks). The seminars include various activities that may involve active student participation.

75% compulsory attendance in teaching activities.The attendance requirement covers normal absences such as minor illness. Therefore, medical certificates do not grant valid absence from teaching, even if the absence is due to circumstances beyond the student’s control.

In special cases, exemptions may be granted by the course coordinator, preferably at the start of the semester.

Approved compulsory activities are valid for two semesters (the semester of approval and the following semester). All compulsory activities must be completed within the same semester.

Compulsory Activities

• 2 written assignments
• 75% compulsory attendance