Module LING3261: SYNTAX 3

Department: Linguistics and English Language

LING3261: SYNTAX 3

Pre-requisites

Corequisites

Excluded Combinations

Aims

• To extend the knowledge of syntactic theory from the basic level attained in level 2 (Syntax 2).
• to examine current issues in syntactic theory, with an emphasis on problems of a theoretical or empirical nature.
• to broaden the students' knowledge of syntactic theory by comparing the approaches of several models to the same problem.
• to further develop the students' skill in argumentation.
• to accustom students to reading primary literature in syntax.
• to prepare students for research in syntactic theory.

Content

• This module extends the knowledge of syntactic theory from the basic level attained in Syntax 2, by examining current issues in generative syntax, with an emphasis on problems of a theoretical and empirical nature.
• Whilst Syntax 2 concentrates on the standard Principles and Parameters model of Chomskyan syntax from the 1980's, Syntax 3 expands on this by examining the Minimalist Program and also other generative frameworks, comparing the approaches of several models to the same problems.
• Issues involving clause structure, the structure of the nominal phrase, and rule-based vs.
• constraint-based approaches are discussed and evaluated.

Learning Outcomes

• At the end of the module students will: have acquired knowledge and understanding of a set of issues at the forefront of research within syntactic theory.
• understand syntactic facts and problems arising from a set of syntactic constructions.
• have gained experience in dealing with problems of a theoretical and empirical nature.
• have gained experience in reading primary literature and the ability to analyse this literature critically.
• be able to present their research clearly and coherently.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

• Lectures introduce students to the topics under discussion.
• Seminars enable the students to: discuss and analyse primary literature, thereby developing critical ability and argumentation skills.
• develop a wider understanding of the field.
• prepare a coherent research paper at the end of the module through presentation in class.
• Student learning will enable students to: build on their knowledge of syntax acquired at level 2 and develop their knowledge and understanding of up to date developments in the field.
• become familiar with reading primary literature.
• present a clear and coherent argument in preparation for presenting their research.
• Tutorials support student learning and in particular enable students to discuss the development of their own research.
• The assessment (5,000 word essay) will enable students to demonstrate: their familiarity with the methods and practices of syntactic theory.
• their understanding of research in theoretical syntax.
• critical abilities and written communication/argumentation skills.
• an understanding of the research process and the skills required.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment

Class presentation including preparation of handout.