Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2024 - LING 100 B100

Communication and Language (3)

Class Number: 1475

Delivery Method: Blended

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 6 – Aug 2, 2024: Thu, 10:30 a.m.–12:20 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

Blended. Students will attend one two-hour meeting in person per week, and will be expected to complete online activities for one additional hour per week (at the student’s convenience).

Grading

  • Midterm 1 23%
  • Midterm 2 23%
  • Midterm 3 24%
  • Assignments 20%
  • Participation 10%
  • 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.

Students with hidden or visible disabilities who may need class or exam accommodations, including in the current context of remote learning, are encouraged to register with the SFU Centre for Accessible Learning (caladmin@sfu.ca or 778-782-3112) as soon as possible to ensure that they are eligible and that approved accommodations and services are implemented in a timely fashion.

Materials

MATERIALS + SUPPLIES:

Students will need access to a computer or tablet and have internet access in order to complete the required activities.

REQUIRED READING:

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

RECOMMENDED READING:

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

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