MCCCD Program Description

Introduction to Linguistics

Course: SLC201

First Term: 2010 Spring

Lecture 3.0 Credit(s) 3.0 Period(s) 3.0 Load
Subject Type: Academic
Load Formula: S

Description: Introduction to the study of language. Study of the nature and diversity of world languages, linguistic structures and functions of language, language variation, pragmatics and the learning/acquisition of first and second languages.

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Define the significance of language. (I) 2. Describe the principal aspects of language typology that classifies languages according to their structural features. (II) 3. Describe, explain and compare the structural diversity of various languages. (II) 4. Describe the basic differences and commonalities of various languages. (II) 5. Explain each one of the basic concepts of the traditional areas of linguistic structures and function of languages. (III) 6. Identify and differentiate the major dimensions of language variation and language change. (IV) 7. Describe the principles of pragmatics. (V) 8. Define the concept of discourse analysis. (V) 9. Explain the similarities and differences between written and oral discourse. (V) 10. Describe the important aspects of language learning / acquisition. (VI)
MCCCD Official Course Competencies must be coordinated with the content outline so that each major point in the outline serves one or more competencies. MCCCD faculty retains authority in determining the pedagogical approach, methodology, content sequencing, and assessment metrics for student work. Please see individual course syllabi for additional information, including specific course requirements.

MCCCD Official Course Outline
I. The nature of language A. What is language? B. Human vs. animal communication II. World languages A. Typologies of world languages B. Language diversity C. Written systems of various world languages III. Linguistic structure and functions of language A. Phonemes B. Morphemes C. Syntax D. Lexicon IV. Language variation A. Language vs. dialect B. Regional and social variation and language change C. Languages in contact and bilingualism V. Pragmatics A. Appropriate use of language according to situation and social factors B. Written vs. oral discourse VI. Language learning/acquisition A. Language and the brain B. First and second language acquisition

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: 9/25/2007

All information published is subject to change without notice. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information presented, but based on the dynamic nature of the curricular process, course and program information is subject to change in order to reflect the most current information available.