Formal Analysis of Words & Sentences (260-0-20)

Instructors

Michael Tabatowski

Meeting Info

TBA: Mon, Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri 2:00PM - 3:20PM

Overview of class

This class will meet in person from 2:00 to 3:20 M-F, and the class will be asynchronous for an additional 90 minutes M-F. 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.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, students should be able to:

1. Create and analyze formal models of the structure of words and sentences, accounting for regularities within and across languages.

2. Communicate arguments about word and sentence structure through graphical formats (tree diagrams), using empirical evidence and logical arguments to back claims.

3. Describe the advantages of applying similar formal constructs to a range of different linguistic structures within and across languages.

4. 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.

Teaching Method

Lecture, discussion, in-class problem-solving

Evaluation Method

Homework problem sets, quizzes, 2 exams

Class Materials (Required)

Carnie, Andrew. 2021. Syntax: A Generative Introduction (4th edition). Wiley-Blackwell. ISBN: 99781119569237

Be sure to purchase the 4th 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

Empirical and Deductive Reasoning Foundational Dis
Formal Studies Distro Area
Hybrid: Remote component and in-person mtgs