ATS1338 · Cracking the language code: English and beyond

Overview

Immerse yourself in the world of words! Every day, we're surrounded by an astonishing 100,000 of them. It's no wonder that linguistics—the scientific investigation of language—is an ever-growing field of study. In this unit, we'll focus on English as a window into the languages of the world. We'll dive into the sounds (phonology) and structure of words (morphology), and their meanings (semantics). Plus, we'll investigate how different groups of people use these language features, and how they have shaped language over time. As part of this unit, students will have the opportunity to specialise in Language and Technology, Language Learning, Education and Literacy Development, or Language and the Law. Join us to unravel the mysteries of human language and see how it impacts real life.

Areas of study: Linguistics

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Within semester assessment: 100%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. outline the speech sounds of English and other languages, and how they are produced;
2. identify the components of words and how they interact;
3. use a range of conventions for writing down sounds and words;
4. discuss some key elements of linguistic, social and cultural diversity;
5. engage in informed debates on the use of English as an international language, and on linguistic variation in a global context;
6. discuss how the knowledge gained in the unit to can be applied to various professional contexts.

Workload

Minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of scheduled learning activities and independent study. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher directed learning, peer directed learning and online engagement.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.