This course gives an introduction to human language, its structure and how it can be described and analysed. The methodology of linguistics (the scientific study of language) is introduced, focusing on the formulation of generalisations that say what all human languages share. The aim of the unit is to give a conceptual framework for (1) thinking about and discussing language and language-related topics, and (2) aiding the acquisition of a second language.

Topics covered include: The nature of human language. Speech sounds, and how they are made (Phonetics) and function to distinguish words (Phonemics). The structure of words (Morphology). How words are combined into larger units like phrases and sentences (Syntax). The kinds of meaning that are signaled (Semantics). How a language changes: over time (Historical Linguistics), over distance (Dialectology), and with social background (Sociolinguistics). General concepts will be illustrated as much as possible using languages taught at the ANU.

Upon completion of the course, you can expect to be able to do at least some of the following:

• You will be able to describe properly basic aspects of language structure like speech sounds, words and sentences, and analyse parts of languages that are unfamiliar to you;
• You will have a conceptual framework for 1) thinking about and discussing language and language-related topics, and 2) aiding the acquisition or teaching of a second language;
• You will have a solid foundation for the more advanced study of aspects of language that interest you, like sociolinguistics, semantics, phonetics, syntax and historical linguistics;
• You will learn how to make sense of data and develop skills of reasoning and logic.

Assignment 1 (12%), Assignment 2 (18%), Assignment 3 (20%) and Final Exam (50%).

2 hours of lectures and one hour of tutorial per week

LING2001

Fromkin et al., An Introduction to Language, 7th or later ed., Thomson.