LIN 5000 The Nature of Language

STAFFING:

RATIONALE:

To be able to teach languages, instructors need to be aware of what language is, how it can be described in terms of phonology, semantics and syntax, and how the meaning potential of language is realised in actual usage. Teachers also need to be aware of some recent theories of language as well as an understanding that language operates in a social domain that determines how it is used and how it positions the users.

SYNOPSIS:

Students will be introduced to what language is, how it can be described in terms of phonology, semantics and syntax, and how the meaning is realised in actual usage. They will be also introduced to some recent theories of language as well as how language operates in a social domain.

OBJECTIVES:

At the end of the course students will show an understanding of:

1. the complex interelations between phonology, semantics, syntax and pragmatics in the production of meaning by discussing these relationships and giving concrete examples of them;
2. systemic linguistics and show an awareness of other theories of language;
3. the relationships between language, society and culture by describing how language varieties and language use are intertwined with social and cultural factors.

TOPICS:

TEXT and MATERIALS required to be PURCHASED or accessed:

ALL textbooks and materials are available for purchase from USQ BOOKSHOP (unless otherwise stated). Orders may be placed via secure internet, free fax 1800642453, phone 07 46312742 (within Australia), or mail. Overseas students should fax +61 7 46311743, or phone +61 7 46312742. For costs, further details, and internet ordering, use the 'Textbook Search' facility at http://bookshop.usq.edu.au click 'Semester', then enter your 'Course Code' (no spaces).

REFERENCE MATERIALS:

STUDENT WORKLOAD REQUIREMENTS:

ASSESSMENT DETAILS:

NOTES:

1.

Reflective Journal 1 is to be submitted with Assignment 1.

2.

Reflective Journal 2 is to be submitted with Assignment 2.

IMPORTANT ASSESSMENT INFORMATION

1. Attendance requirements:
   There are no attendance requirements for this course. However, it is the students' responsibility to study all material provided to them or required to be accessed by them to maximise their chance of meeting the objectives of the course and to be informed of course-related activities and administration.
2. Requirements for students to complete each assessment item satisfactorily:
   To complete each of the assessment items satisfactorily, students must obtain at least 50% of the marks available (or at least a grade of C-).
3. Penalties for late submission of required work:
   A penalty may be applied if an arrangement for an assignment extension has not been negotiated before the due date.
4. Requirements for student to be awarded a passing grade in the course:
   To be assured of receiving a passing grade a student must achieve at least 50% of the available weighted marks for the summative assessment items.
5. Method used to combine assessment results to attain final grade:
   The final grades for students will be assigned on the basis of the weighted aggregate of the marks (or grades) obtained for each of the summative assessment items in the course.
6. Examination information:
   N/A
7. Examination period when Deferred/Supplementary examinations will be held:
   N/A
8. University Regulations:
   Students should read USQ Regulations 5.1 Definitions, 5.6. Assessment, and 5.10 Academic Misconduct for further information and to avoid actions which might contravene University Regulations. These regulations can be found at the URL http://www.usq.edu.au/corporateservices/calendar/part5.htm or in the current USQ Handbook.

ASSESSMENT NOTES

OTHER REQUIREMENTS:

1. Students must submit all the assignments, journals and take-home test.
2. To pass, students must achieve at least 50% in the take-home test paper.