Formal Analysis of Words & Sentences (260-0-20)
Instructors
Erin M. Leddon
847/467-7092
2016 Sheridan Rd, Rm. 305
Office Hours: By appt
Meeting Info
Tech Institute Lecture Room 5: Tues, Thurs 12:30PM - 1:50PM
Overview of class
In this class we will explore the formal structure of words (morphology) and sentences (syntax) in natural language. We will analyze data from a variety of languages (including English), focusing on the differences among morphological and syntactic systems, but also on the generalizations that can be made about all languages.
You will learn terminology and facts about syntax and morphology, but more importantly, you will learn the basic concepts, skills, and methodology necessary for scientific theory construction and analytical reasoning more generally. The focus of this class is on formal (structural) aspects of language rather than on its social aspects. For this reason, it satisfies the Weinberg Formal Studies Distribution Requirement.
Registration Requirements
WCAS Distribution Requirement: Formal Studies Distro Area
Learning Objectives
By the end of this course, students should be able to:
1. Explain the overarching questions addressed by the study of syntax and morphology, and describe the research areas targeted by other subfields in linguistics. Define basic terminology in linguistics, syntax, and morphology.
2. Analyze data from English and other languages to discover regularities and patterns in the structure of words and sentences within and across languages.
3. Describe how the scientific method is used in linguistic research, and formulate rules/hypotheses to account for the structure of words and sentences.
4. Evaluate hypotheses about syntactic and morphological structure; generate data to test hypotheses; provide reasoning to support or refute hypotheses.
Teaching Method
Lecture, discussion, in-class problem-solving
Evaluation Method
Homework problem sets, quizzes, 2 exams
Class Materials (Required)
Carnie, Andrew. 2013. Syntax: A Generative Introduction (3rd edition). Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN: 978-0470655313
Be sure to purchase the 3rd edition of the text (e-versions are acceptable as well). Other readings for the course will be made available online.
Class Materials (Suggested)
N/A
Class Attributes
Formal Studies Distro Area