Module LING3281: SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION OF SYNTAX

Department: LINGUISTICS AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE

LING3281: SECOND LANGUAGE ACQUISITION OF SYNTAX

Prerequisites

• Syntax 2 (LING2161), AND Introduction to Second Language Acquisition (LING2191).

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To become familiar with current work on theoretical approaches to L2 acquisition whose underpinnings stem from linguistic theory.
• to become familiar with conceptual and empirical work that speaks to issues relevant to different approaches to L2 acquisition.
• to extend knowledge of the nature of L2 acquisition in comparison to L1 acquisition.
• to accustom students to reading primary literature in the field.
• to prepare students for research into L2 acquisition of syntax.

Content

• This module considers non-native language (L2) acquisition from a linguistic perspective.
• The aim of the class is to become familiar with some current work on theoretical approaches to L2 acquisition whose underpinnings stem from linguistic theory.
• Much of the recent research in this area has focused on syntactic development.
• the overall goal has been to create a conceptually and empirically well-grounded theory of L2 acquisition.
• We will closely examine the opposing proposals, critically evaluating some of the most central conceptual and empirical research in the field.

Learning Outcomes

• At the end of this module students will: have acquired knowledge and understanding of current work in the L2 acquisition of syntax.
• have developed their knowledge of syntax and acquisition beyond level 2.
• have gained experience in dealing with theoretical and empirical problems in second language acquisition of syntax.
• have gained experience in working with languages other than English.
• have developed analytical skills.
• be able to present research clearly and concisely.

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

• The initial lectures will introduce students to the topic and literature 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 and language acquisition 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 and the relationship of this theory to research in second language acquisition.
• the ability to handle data from languages with which they are initially unfamiliar.
• their understanding of research on theoretical approaches to L2 acquisition.
• 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.

■ Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University