LNGS3690 - Issues in Theoretical Linguistics

Semester 1, 2012  |  Credit Points: 6

Coordinator: Toni Borowsky
Phone: +61 2 9351 3479
Email: toni.borowsky@sydney.edu.au

Description

This unit introduces students to the methods of linguistic argument through careful study of a current debate in theoretical linguistics. Students learn to identify and assess the underlying assumptions, to work out what evidence would confirm or disconfirm the hypotheses made by different parties in the debate, and to draw conclusions as to which hypotheses are more likely to be useful or correct. They also learn to situate the debate within the wider contexts of linguistic theories and language description. Students are asked to contact staff members to discuss potential topics.

Assessments

1x4000wd paper (70%), 1x2000wd tutorial paper (30%)

Classes

1x2-hr seminar/week

Prerequisites

Credit average in 18 senior credit points from Linguistics. The units must include (LNGS2601 or LNGS2001) and (at least one of LNGS2602, LNGS2002, LNGS2003, LNGS2603)

Prohibitions

LNGS3914

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