Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2023 - LING 100 D100

Communication and Language (3)

Class Number: 1432

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 8 – Aug 4, 2023: Mon, Wed, Fri, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Explores the foundations of human language from a variety of perspectives. Young children acquire language effortlessly. How is this possible, and why is it so much more challenging to learn a new language later in life? How does the human brain use complex grammatical systems to communicate? Students will learn new ways to think critically about language and communication. Open to all students. Breadth-Social Sciences.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course introduces the study of language and human communication. Topics to be covered include:

  • the biological basis of human language
  • relations of language to cognition, culture and thought
  • structure in language
  • the neurological basis of language and language disorders
  • language acquisition
  • languages of the world
  • language change
  • human language vs. animal communication
  • evolution of human language
  • language in society
  • writing systems

MODE OF INSTRUCTION/ DELIVERY: In-person 

PLATFORM: Canvas 

TECHNOLOGY REQUIRED: None  

Grading

  • Midterm Exam I 30%
  • Midterm Exam II 30%
  • Midterm Exam III 40%
  • No Final Exam

NOTES:

This course may be applied towards the Certificate in Teaching English as a Second Language.

Linguistics program students cannot count this course towards their breadth requirements unless in joint or double majors, extended minor, or double minors program.

It is strongly recommended that you see the Student Advisor regarding your degree requirements at least two semesters before you plan to graduate. Unless you meet both faculty and major/minor requirements, your graduation cannot be approved.

Students requiring accommodations as a result of a disability, must contact the Centre for Accessible Learning (cal_admin@sfu.ca, 778-782-3112) 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Slides will be available for download from the course Canvas site beginning in May 5th 2023. New installments will be posted regularly.


Readings that will be available through Canvas (either through electronic reserves or electronic books and journals) or other web-based sources. Occasional video links will also be provided.   


REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

Department Undergraduate Notes:

Students should familiarize themselves with the Department's Standards on Class Management and Student Responsibilities.

Please note that a grade of “FD” (Failed-Dishonesty) may be assigned as a penalty for academic dishonesty.

All student requests for accommodations for 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.

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

SFU’s Academic Integrity website http://www.sfu.ca/students/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

RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the semester are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.