Sounds and structures

The objective of this two-module course is to offer an introduction to English phonetics and phonology, and grammar. The course develops students' linguistic awareness of phenomena related to the sounds and structures of English and equips students with linguistic analysis skills.

The course combines theoretical introductions and practical activities. Both theory and practice are carefully weaved together in order to develop a broad understanding of the topic.

Topics in English phonetics and phonology include description and classification of sound segments, analysis of basic phonetic processes, and the main principles of English intonation.

Topics in English grammar include demarcation of lexical categories, structure of linguistic expressions of various levels of complexity (e.g., words, phrases, sentences), relationship between form, meaning and function as well as linguistic terminology.

On completion of the course, students have achieved the following learning outcomes in terms of knowledges, skills, and competences. These are achieved through autonomous work with the syllabus, preparation for lectures and seminars, participation in discussions and submission of the compulsory assignments specified under "Compulsory Assignments and Attendance":

Knowledge

Students

• are familiar with basic terminology and concepts in syntax, morphology and phonetics/phonology
• are familiar with basic analytical tools in syntactic, morphological and phonetic/phonological analysis
• have knowledge of the central aspects of Present-day English word-, clause- and sentence structure
• have knowledge of the sound segments, intonation patterns, and most common phonetic processes in standard British and American English

Skills

Students are able to

• analyse, describe and explain basic topics in grammar, phonetics and phonology, using appropriate terminology

• use language data to discuss and contextualize syntactic and morphological structures and phenomena
• use linguistic material to discuss and explain phonetic and phonological concepts and use appropriate symbols to transcribe English pronunciation and intonation
• demonstrate and employ key research abilities in solving set problems

General competence

Students can

• think and reason analytically about topics within English linguistics

• express themselves in correct academic English when describing English language structure and usage
• work autonomously, plan their own work, and achieve goals and meet deadlines
• employ collaborative skills - the ability to engage in critical and constructive discussion as part of a team
• demonstrate written communication skills - the ability to write clearly and effectively in English, and to adjust writing style appropriately to the content, the context, nature, and purpose of the subject
• demonstrate oral communication skills - the ability to communicate effectively and efficiently in spoken English, to explain their ideas to others and to present a longer argument with confidence
• extend their knowledge through further studies in English linguistics