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Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2012 - 2013
Please note that this information is subject to change.

Module Title Introduction to the Study of Language 2
Module Code LC151
School SALIS
Online Module Resources

NFQ level 8 Credit Rating 5
Pre-requisite None
Co-requisite None
Compatibles None
Incompatibles None
Description
Objectives: To introduce students to the major subfields of applied linguistics (e.g. First and Second Language Acquisition, Sociolinguistics, Historical and Comparative Linguistics); To assist students in understanding their own language use, and that of other social and linguistic communities; To increase understanding of the processes underlying the acquisition of language; To raise awareness of the impact of the historical and social context of language use.

Learning Outcomes
1. Describe the major theories of how first and additional languages are acquired.
2. Explain key concepts in the field of applied linguistics.
3. Write short analytical essays discussing key areas in applied linguistics.
4. Research a topic in the area of linguistics and present their findings orally in a clear and succint manner.



Workload Full-time hours per semester
Type Hours Description
Lecture24Interactive lecture with discussion points and activities
Independent learning101Independent research in preparation for individual presentations. Preparatory reading of core text book in advance of lectures and consolidation of material covered in lectures.
Total Workload: 125

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities
First Language Acquisition.
L1 acquisition of Phonology, Morphology, Syntax. Over-generalisation, developmental errors. Theory of L1 acquisition.

Second Language Acquisition.
L2 acquisition of Phonology, Morphology, Syntax, L2 specific developmental processes, e.g. transfer errors, inter-language, fossilisation . Theory of L2 acquisition.

Language and Society.
language vs. dialect, language and social class, language and gender, language and ethnic group, minority languages/language death/language revival, language use in society, euphemism and taboo..

Languages in Contact.
Bilingualism, code-switching, borrowing, pidgins and creoles..

Writing Systems.
Their creation and development..

Language Teaching and Learning.
Theory and practice in the teaching and learning of languages.

Assessment Breakdown
Continuous Assessment100% Examination Weight0%
Course Work Breakdown
TypeDescription% of totalAssessment Date
Presentation15 minute presentation with discussion30%As required
In Class TestOne hour written assessment involving explanation of key terms and concepts and the completion of more analytical essay-type questions.70%Week 12
Reassessment Requirement
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories;
1 = A resit is available for all components of the module
2 = No resit is available for 100% continuous assessment module
3 = No resit is available for the continuous assessment component
This module is category 1
Indicative Reading List
  • Fromkin, V. Rodman, R. & N. Hyams: 2011, An Introduction to Language, Boston, Mass: Thomson Wadsworth Publishers (9th Edition),
  • Wardhaugh, Ronald: 1997, Investigating Language: central problems in linguistics, Oxford: Blackwell Publishers,
  • Akmajian, A. et al.: 2001, Linguistics: An Introduction to Language and Communication, Cambridge, Mass: M.I.T. Press,
Other Resources
None
Array
Programme or List of Programmes
IBLCBA in Inter. Business & Lang. (Chinese)
Timetable this semester: Timetable for LC151
Date of Last Revision10-MAY-11
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