Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2024 - LING 100 D100

Communication and Language (3)

Class Number: 4360

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 4 – Dec 3, 2024: Wed, 2:30–5:20 p.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
  • Human language vs. animal communication
  • Evolution of human language
  • Language in society
  • Writing systems

Grading

  • Exam 1 21%
  • Exam 2 22%
  • Exam 3 22%
  • Homework 15%
  • Participation/in-class 20%

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.

Note that all students will automatically receive one “free” (excused) point for an in-person participation—in other words, you can miss one in-class without any penalty to your grade.

 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Anderson et al. (eds.) Essentials of Linguistics, 2nd edition. This is a free online textbook, available at: https://ecampusontario.pressbooks.pub/essentialsoflinguistics2/

 


Additional reading materials and slides will be made available on Canvas.  

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 term 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.