Introduction to Sociolinguistics 3301-JF2722-1ST
The course explores the relationship between language and society. The course examines how factors such as culture, identity, gender, ethnicity, social class, and region influence language use and variation. Students will be introduced to key concepts in sociolinguistics, including dialects, multilingualism, language change, code-switching, and language attitudes, while developing skills in analyzing real-life linguistic data and communication practices.
Syllabus:
1. Languages, Dialects, and Varieties
2. Pidgins and Creoles
3. Codes: Bilingualism and Multilingualism
4. Language Variation: Regional Variation and Social Variation
5. Varieties of English
6. Variation Studies
7. Language Change
8. Words and Culture
9. Speech Acts and Cooperation
10. Gender and language
Course coordinators
Type of course
Mode
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
Students will have familiarity with:
K_W01 advanced terminology, theory and research methods corresponding to the state of the art in the discipline of linguistics related to sociolinguistics, in accordance with their chosen specialization (and educational path) within the domain of English Studies
K_W09 concepts and principles concerning the protection of intellectual property and copyright
Abilities
Students will be able to:
K_U01 apply advanced terminology, theory and research methods corresponding to the state of the art in the discipline of linguistics related to sociolinguistics, in accordance with their chosen specialization (and educational path) within the domain of English Studies
K_U09 apply the concepts and principles of intellectual property protection and copyright law
Social competences
Students will be ready to:
K_K01 critically appraise their knowledge and content obtained from various sources
K_K02 recognize the importance of knowledge in solving cognitive and practical problems; consult experts when required
*** Applies to students who began their studies in the year 2022/2023 ***
Knowledge
Students will have familiarity with:
K_W02 discuss key terminology, well established methods and theories of linguistics, literary studies and culture studies within English studies
K_W03 describe methodology and recent developments in English linguistics
K_W05 list and discuss the characteristics of English grammar, syntax, phonology, phonetics, morphology and pragmatics on an advanced level
K_W07 explain principles of designing linguistic studies, with special focus on selecting appropriate methods and tools in formulating research questions and testing research hypotheses
Abilities
Students will be able to:
K_U01 employ the terminology and methodological tools from linguistics, literary studies and culture studies
K_U02 employ the methodology of linguistics within English studies, respecting the ethical norms and copyright law
K_U04 implement knowledge to describe a problem and identify means to solve it, thereby completing a project in linguistics
K_U11 design one’s own development
Social competences
Students will be ready to:
K_K02 undertake life-long learning and personal development, applying skills and competences to select subjects and projects optimally suiting one’s personal interests
K_K03 value responsibility for one’s own work and respect the work of others, adhering to the professional and ethical norms in various projects and other activities undertaken at work, voluntary services, etc.
Assessment criteria
written final test (verification of outcomes: W, U).
Bibliography
1. Eckert, Penelope, and Sally McConnell-Ginet. *Language and Gender*. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 2003.
2. Labov, William. *Principles of Linguistic Change*. Oxford: Blackwell, 1994–2010.
3. Labov, William. *Sociolinguistic Patterns*. Philadelphia: University of Pennsylvania Press, 1972.
4. Meyerhoff, Miriam. *Introducing Sociolinguistics*. London: Routledge, 2006.
5. Trudgill, Peter. Sociolinguistics: An Introduction to Language and Society. London: Penguin Books, 1974.
6. Wardhaugh, Ronald, and Janet M. Fuller. *An Introduction to Sociolinguistics*. Malden, MA: Wiley-Blackwell, 2015.