This module provides an introduction to the role of variation in language system, and to the techniques and concepts required to study the way language varies and changes, including geographically (geographical dialect), according to social context (social dialect), and across time -- that is, to the basic principles of sociolinguistics and language variation. We begin by defining language, dialect, and other varieties, and considering myths about language. Topics include the fundamentals of measuring language variation; variation across time, regions, and social categories; the social patterns and social functions of language variation; speaker variables; models and methods of studying language change; and the relationship of language variation to language change. Examples are drawn from the whole history of English dialect usage and change in the British Isles, and varieties of English worldwide.
Aims:
* To introduce the basic concepts of language variation and change
* Address some popular myths about language
* Introduce fundamental techniques for describing and measuring language variation (across time, region, and social category)
* Describe the social patterns and social functions of language variation
* Discuss the relationship of language variation to language change
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:
* Understand the role variation plays in language systems
* Analyse variation in vernacular data and explain its systematic patterning
* Approach the primary academic literature on how social categories affect language use
* Relate synchronic variation to models of language change
* Apply a critical perspective on the social functions and values of dialects and vernacular language usage
Aims:
* To introduce the basic concepts of language variation and change
* Address some popular myths about language
* Introduce fundamental techniques for describing and measuring language variation (across time, region, and social category)
* Describe the social patterns and social functions of language variation
* Discuss the relationship of language variation to language change
Learning Outcomes:
Students will be able to:
* Understand the role variation plays in language systems
* Analyse variation in vernacular data and explain its systematic patterning
* Approach the primary academic literature on how social categories affect language use
* Relate synchronic variation to models of language change
* Apply a critical perspective on the social functions and values of dialects and vernacular language usage
- Module Supervisor: Rachid Khoumikham