Module LING3261: SYNTAX 3

Department: LINGUISTICS AND ENGLISH LANGUAGE

LING3261: SYNTAX 3

Prerequisites

• Syntax 2 (LING2161).

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

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.

■ 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