Summer 2018 - LING 282W D100

Writing for Linguistics (3)

Language and Law: An Introduction

Class Number: 7287

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 7 – Aug 3, 2018: Wed, Fri, 10:30–11:50 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Exam Times + Location:

    Aug 12, 2018
    Sun, 12:00–3:00 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    LING 220: Introduction to Linguistics

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Develops skills in writing in linguistics while providing a closer look at fundamental concepts of the discipline. As topics examined may vary by term, this course may be repeated once for credit if the topic is different. Writing/Quantitative.

COURSE DETAILS:

Almost everything you could possibly want to know about language can be found in language about law. A parking ticket, for example, has a ton of information regarding the structure of language, why it is used that way, and the people and purposes that it serves. Or a call to 911. Here we learn about speech sounds and the rhythm of language. A contract — spoken or written — provides us with insights into all of the preceding and more. And actual written laws, as in the Criminal Code of Canada, are not only a treasure of linguistic information but pretty entertaining, too.

This course, in a basic and student-friendly way, helps you to develop writing skills for linguistics. Through language as it is used in different corners of law, you’ll get a grasp of the fundamentals of linguistic science.

Writing is a skill that is so necessary, it is worth practicing at every chance. Here then is another chance in a supportive setting. I will make you a better writer or, at the very least, get you started down that path!

Grading

  • Midterms (2) 20%
  • Assignments (some will be in-class, others take-home) 60%
  • Final exam 20%

NOTES:

1.  Students should familiarize themselves with the Department’s Standards on Class Management and Student Responsibilities at http://www.sfu.ca/linguistics/undergraduate/standards.html.
2. A grade of “FD” may be assigned as a penalty for academic dishonesty.
3.  Students’ requests for accommodation of their religious practices must be made in writing by the end of the first week of classes or no later than one week after a student adds a course.
4.  Students requiring accommodations as the result of a disability must contact the Centre for Students with Disabilities (778.782.3112 or csdo@sfu.ca).

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

  Mooney, Annabelle. 2014. Language and law. (Houndsmill, Basingstoke), England & NYC. Palgrave Macmillan. ISBN 978-1-137-01794-9 (paperback).
—  A weekly slide deck will be available for download from the course Canvas site beginning in May 2018. New installments will be posted at regular intervals.
—  Selected readings posted on Canvas.

Registrar Notes:

SFU’s Academic Integrity web site http://students.sfu.ca/academicintegrity.html is filled with information on what is meant by academic dishonesty, where you can find resources to help with your studies and the consequences of cheating.  Check out the site for more information and videos that help explain the issues in plain English.

Each student is responsible for his or her conduct as it affects the University community.  Academic dishonesty, in whatever form, is ultimately destructive of the values of the University. Furthermore, it is unfair and discouraging to the majority of students who pursue their studies honestly. Scholarly integrity is required of all members of the University. http://www.sfu.ca/policies/gazette/student/s10-01.html

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS