Language Description

Level : 6
Credit Rating : 40
Code: EGL6100
Tutor: Andrew Kehoe.

Module Aims

1. To lay a foundation of knowledge and skills in the linguistic description of English
2. To develop understanding of the phonology of English and skills in transcription
3. To develop understanding of the lexico-grammar of English and skills in the analysis of the structure of English words and sentences

Module Description

Based on two textbooks, this module examines the main features of the pronunciation of English and of the grammar and vocabulary. It gives practice in phonetic transcription, and in the analysis of words (morphology) and of sentences (syntax). It provides a framework and a terminology for talking about and describing key features of English phonology and lexico-grammar.

Learning Outcomes

At the end of this module students should be able to:

1. make a phonetic transcription of a text as if fluently spoken
2. propose analyses of the morphological structure of words
3. propose analyses of the syntax of sentences
4. reflect on problems and reasons for choosing one analysis over another

Learning and Teaching Strategy

For all the modules on this programme, the module handbook guides the student through relevant topics in conjunction with recommended reading. The handbook includes many exercises, which encourage the students to reflect on and interact with the knowledge they are acquiring. Students may contact the module tutor at any point for support during their learning experience, using post, email or telephone as appropriate.

Assessment Strategy

Formative assessment is provided in the form of 'exercises'. Summative assessment in the form of 'assignments' comprises:

1. a phonetic transcription (LOs 1 & 4)
2. a morphological analysis and syntactic analysis (LOs 2, 3 & 4)

Each assignment accounts for 50% of the final module mark.

Assessment Criteria

1. accuracy of the analysis (LOs 1-3)
2. quality of the reflection (LO 4)

Assessment Dates

as specified in the Module Booklet

Method of Feedback To Students

individual written feedback on each exercise and assignment

Learning Resources

Essential textbooks:

Collins, B. & Mees, I.M. (2013) Practical Phonetics and Phonology (3rd Edition), Routledge [or 2nd Edition, 2009]
Jackson, H. (2002) Grammar and Vocabulary, Routledge

Further Reading:

Biber, D. et al. (2002) Longman Student’s Grammar of Spoken and Written English, Longman
Carter, R.A. & McCarthy, M. (2006) Cambridge Grammar of English, CUP
Coffin, C., Donohue, J. & North, S. (2009) Exploring English Grammar, Routledge
Cruttenden, A. (2008) Gimson’s Pronunciation of English, 7th Edition, HodderArnold
Gramley, S. & Pätzold, K-M. (2004) A Survey of Modern English, 2nd Edition, Routledge
Jackson, H. & Zé Amvela, E. (2007) Words, Meaning and Vocabulary, 2nd Edition, Continuum
Jones, D. et al. (2006) Cambridge English Pronouncing Dictionary, 17th Edition, CUP
McCully,C. (2009) The Sound Structure of English, CUP

Websites:

International Phonetic Association
Internet Grammar of English