2023/24 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

LING3065 Experimental Syntax

20 creditsClass Size: 24

Module manager: Diane Nelson
Email: d.c.nelson@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2023/24

Pre-requisites

LING2340

Syntax

Module replaces

LING3030 Syntactic Theory

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module develops advanced research and analytical skills in morphology, syntax and their interface (morphosyntax). Lectures introduce key theoretical terms and concepts in generative syntactic theory. We then explore how theoretical predictions can be tested in experimental studies in child or adult language acquisition, language processing, or language impairments. Students must complete LING2340 Syntax before enrolling on this module or with the permission of the module leader.

Objectives

The module aims to:
• Introduce and consolidate advanced technical terminology and concepts in theoretical syntax
• Develop skills in reading source literature
• Develop skills in analysis of empirical data to test theoretical concepts and proposals.
• Build critical awareness of different theoretical viewpoints and their predictions for language processing and development.

Learning outcomes
1. confidently use key terminology and concepts underlying generative grammar and Minimalist programme for syntactic theory
2. analyse datasets and constituent structure for English and other languages through assessed coursework
3. employ sound syntactic argumentation and show critical awareness of generative approaches to syntax
4. read and synthesise source experimental literature
5. communicate knowledge of theoretical concepts in generative syntax as it relates to empirical data from different populations.

Skills outcomes
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
• Analyse constituent structure and morphosyntactic phenomena to an advanced level.
• Analyse and interpret results from experimental studies as evidence for linguistic theory.
• Design and present a poster describing a published experimental study.

Syllabus

Topics may include but not be limited to:
• Subject positions and VP shells
• DPs and A-movement
• Null subjects
• Binding theory
• The cartography of functional heads in IP and CP

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	10	1.00	10.00
Seminar	10	1.00	10.00
Private study hours			180.00
Total Contact hours			20.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			200.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Group class activities in seminars; self-study tree drawing practice; poster presentations delivered in seminars.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Assignment	Approximately 1500 words. Assignment consists of (a) data analysis task and (b) constituent structure analysis (trees)	60.00
Poster Presentation	A3 size	40.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 11/05/2023

Disclaimer

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