Language in Culture and Society (ENG123)

Content

In this course, students will learn about different levels of variation in language and what constitutes a linguistic standard. They will encounter several factors that influence communication and linguistic identity, such as multilingualism and its effect on individual expression. The impact that region, gender and social class have on language use will also be examined as well as how these factors contribute to distinct linguistic practices. Additionally, students will learn how language evolves over time and how languages in contact affect each other, leading to changes and innovations. Moreover, they will encounter a selection of international varieties of English, such as countries with English as a first language, as a second language and as a language of increasing importance. By the end of the course, students will gain a deeper understanding of the intricate ways language functions within cultural and social contexts.

Learning outcome

Knowledge

By the end of the course, the students will have gained knowledge of:

• central themes, theories, processes, and methods within the subject area
• standard language, variation and dialects
• region, gender and social class as factors influencing speech variation
• language contact, multilingualism and language change
• particular linguistic features found in select international varieties of English

Skills

By the end of the course, the students will be able to:

• describe various levels of speech variation
• analyze speech variation in relation to social variables, such as region, gender and social class
• evaluate the appropriate use of language in different social situations
• identify linguistic features typical of some international varieties of English and recognize speakers from different backgrounds

General competence

By the end of the course, the students will be able to:

• understand how language varies and functions within culture and society
• improve their own communication skills within specific contexts
• use the acquired knowledge in further studies of language and linguistics and in teaching

Required prerequisite knowledge

None

Recommended prerequisites

The course presupposes a solid command of written and spoken English.

Exam

Coursework requirements

Written assignment

One written assignment - approximately 500-1500 words as set by instructor.

In order to take the exam, students must have passed the obligatory written assignment.

If the assignment is assessed as not approved on the first attempt, students are given one opportunity to submit a revised assignment.

Course teacher(s)

Course coordinator:

Oliver Martin Traxel

Study Adviser:

Margrethe Melin

Study Adviser:

Anne Marie Nygaard

Method of work

Lectures

Open for

Open course for all students with an active right to study and who meet the requirements for general university admissions certification (GSK).

Course assessment

There must be an early dialogue between the course supervisor, the student union representative and the students. The purpose is feedback from the students for changes and adjustments in the course for the current semester.In addition, a digital course evaluation must be carried out at least every three years. Its purpose is to gather the students experiences with the course.

Literature