Language of Science 1200-JEZNAUK-OG

The lecture is aimed to acquaint students with the origin and the structure of the scientific terminology. It is achieved by introducing some elements of the ancient Greek and Latin languages and in particular their pronunciation rules by example of the names of biological species, astronomical constellation names etc. The etymology of the names of disciplines is introduced as well as many specific terms from particular science and arts fields. It is aimed to facilitate the understanding and remembering the specialized vocabulary and to enable the student to create their own terms in their own scientific activity if needed.

During the lecture, various aspects of language correctness are discussed as well as the Greek and Latin phrases, sayings and acronyms which are used by scholars and scientists. Good language habits are addressed as well.

The selected names of chemical elements and substances, the ubiquitous Greek and Latin numerals will be discussed. A systematic review of the most important Greek and Latin words, prefixes and suffixes which are present in the scientific terminology is done.

Depending on the students' interests, it is possible to change or extend the scope of the lecture.

Type of course

general courses
elective courses

Prerequisites (description)

It is assumed that the student knows basic grammar terminology of the polish language.

Course coordinators

Janusz Cukras

Learning outcomes

After the lecture the student should:
a) be able to write and read signs of the greek alphabet,
b) be able to correctly read greek and latin words,
c) be able to deal with the basic greek and latin numerals.
d) be able to recognize the learned greek and latin words in scientific terms and to understand the relationship between terms of similar origin, to understand or predict the meaning of a term in the context in which it is present,
e) be able to to learn new terminology with greater ease.

Assessment criteria

1) Whenever during the semestre: oral test of the greek alphabet and greek and latin pronunciation (takes ca. 5 mins).
2) Final written exam with the possiblity to improve the score during an oral answer.

All the previous years' exams are availabe on the course's online platform.

Additional points for online activities.

Practical placement

Not applicable.

Bibliography

Materials distributed by the lecturer.
(Latin language dictionary.
Greek language dictionary)

Additional information

Information on level of this course, year of study and semester when the course unit is delivered, types and amount of class hours - can be found in course structure diagrams of apropriate study programmes. This course is related to the following study programmes:

Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system:

Description of 1200-JEZNAUK-OG in USOSweb