Syntax

This course equips students with a solid competence in language structure analysis and insight into aspects of language acquisition (first and second language acquisition). The student learns how to analyze structural differences and similarities between languages via an introduction to the generative framework of principles and parameters, with an emphasis on syntactical analysis.

Candidates will have obtained the following qualifications after successfully completing this course:

Knowledge:

The candidate has:

• knowledge of central concepts, theories and models of analysis within a generative framework (specifically Principles and Parameters Theory)
• insight into theories of universal grammar as an innate cognitive endowment
• knowledge of the syntactic makeup of a variety of different sentence types
• knowledge of structural differences between Norwegian and other languages
• knowledge of the interplay between syntax and semantics

Skills:

The candidate can:

• make use of the theoretical analytical apparatus in a creative and independent manner
• master the most important concepts and methods of analysis within generative syntax
• develop and discuss syntactical analyses of central Norwegian sentence types
• analyze a selection of structural differences and similarities between Norwegian and other languages
• produce knowledge both orally and in writing

Lectures and assignments/presentations.

Obligatory assignments: Up to 4 approved written assignments or oral presentations.

Approved obligatory assignments are valid for 2 semesters (the semester in which the approval is given, plus the following semester).