2024/25 Taught Postgraduate Module Catalogue

LING5440M Approaches to Linguistics and Language Acquisition

30 creditsClass Size: 40

Module manager: Clare Wright
Email: c.e.m.wright@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2024/25

This module is not approved as an Elective

Module summary

This module explores core topics in linguistics and language acquisition including generative, cognitive and functional linguistics. Students learn about different theoretical approaches in the field and are introduced to a range of research methodologies used in empirical research. The module develops skills in extensive reading of primary and secondary sources in linguistics and language acquisition.

Objectives

The aim of this module is to for students to learn to describe, analyse and critically evaluate key concepts and methodologies in mainstream formal and functional linguistic theories, as applied to language acquisition, and to be able to understand how to select and interpret primary research articles.

Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will:
1. identify mainstream approaches to linguistics
2. explain the relationship between language acquisition theories and linguistic theories
3. evaluate how and why different linguistic theories and methodologies have developed

Skills Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
4. Demonstrate critical thinking skills
5. Develop inclusive digital communication skills
6. Build skills in effective oral and written communication

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module

Teaching methods

Delivery type	Number	Length hours	Student hours
Lecture	10	2.00	20.00
Seminar	10	1.00	10.00
Private study hours			270.00
Total Contact hours			30.00
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits)			300.00

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

The seminars provide a forum for supporting and monitoring students’ progress. The first assignment is designed to scaffold students as a formative feedforward exercise, teaching and supporting students in content knowledge and analysis skills, as well as essay writing skills as expected in linguistics and at MA level, and students receive extensive written feedback on it before they submit the second, more heavily-weighted essay. Each lecture and seminar is accompanied by digital formative quizzes and interactive peer-based tasks to build oral as well as written skills.

Methods of assessment

Coursework

Assessment type	Notes	% of formal assessment
Critique	Critique	20.00
Essay	Essay	80.00
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework)		100.00

The first piece of coursework scaffolds students, who typically have little or no knowledge of the field, towards the more advanced subject-specific theoretical knowledge, critical analysis and communication skills assessed in the second assessment.

Reading list

The reading list is available from the Library website

Last updated: 01/02/2024

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