MCCCD Program Description

Introduction to the Study of Language

Course: ENG213

First Term: 2010 Summer I

Lecture 3 Credit(s) 3 Period(s) 3 Load
Subject Type: Academic
Load Formula: S

Description: Study of language as code; phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics; language acquisition; historical and socio-linguistics

MCCCD Official Course Competencies
1. Define the concept of language and contrast language with other forms of communication. (I) 2. Define, explain, and exemplify grammatical terminology common to the study of language. (II) 3. Contrast the concepts of standard language and nonstandard language. (III) 4. Trace the process of language acquisition and identify key theories in the field of language acquisition. (III) 5. Explain the role of the human brain in acquiring and using language as a means of communication. (IV) 6. Write three reviews of magazine/newspaper articles relevant to the study of language. (V) 7. Read a minimum of five professional sources on a linguistic topic and write an annotated bibliography critically analyzing the theoretical basis, nature of evidence, and credibility of the findings of each article. (V) 8. Write a formal research report of at least 1000 words analyzing and interpreting data from primary and/or secondary sources. (V) 9. Present an oral report on the research project. (V)
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. How did language develop II. Grammatical Aspects of Language A. Morphology: word B. Syntax: sentence patterns C. Semantics: meaning D. Phonetics: sounds E. Phonology: sound patterns III. Social Aspect of Language A. Language varieties 1. Standard English 2. Dialects 3. Cultural aspects 4. Slang, jargon, taboos 5. Sexist language B. Writing Systems IV. Biological Aspects of Language A. Language acquisition B. Human processing 1. Brain 2. Mind 3. Language V. Practical Application A. Magazine/Newspaper Reviews 1. Summarize 2. Response 3. Relevance B. Annotated Bibliography 1. Theoretical Basis 2. Nature of Evidence 3. Credibility of Findings C. Sources 1. Primary 2. Secondary D. Oral Report

MCCCD Governing Board Approval Date: 2/22/2000

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.