MLL 190
Tuesdays and Thursdays 11:30 a.m.- 12:45 p.m., SS 113
The use of language has long been considered a defining characteristic of the human species. In this course we attempt to discover exactly why. We examine the structure and use of spoken, written, and signed forms of language, comparing these codes with animal communication and with human nonverbal systems. The central theme of the course is the interaction of biological and social factors in the formation of human linguistic ability.
Thomas T. Field
Telephone: 410-455-6798
Email address: tfield@umbc.edu
Office: Library 216H
Office hours: Wednesdays 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and by appointment
Pinker, Steven. The Language Instinct. New York: Perennial Classics, 2000.
Yule. George. The Study of Language, 2nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1996.
Readings on reserve in the library: see syllabus.
Three tests plus a final examination. The grades earned on the tests will account for two-thirds of your final grade. The final exam, which is obligatory and cumulative, will count as one-third of the final grade. I will assign five optional written projects; these will be graded pass/fail and will be used to determine final grades in borderline cases.
Academic integrity is expected at UMBC. Any case of dishonest academic behavior will be reported to the head of the Academic Integrity Committee and will result in a grade of F for the course.
All projects should be typed on standard 81/2 x 11" paper. Use plain paper; double-space your text, and use one side only. Leave 1" margins on all four sides and make certain that your name appears on all pages. Attach your sheets with a staple or paper clip, not with a folder or binder. Spelling and vocabulary errors will be counted in the determination of grades.
General information / Syllabus / Exams / Linguistics at UMBC