Overview

Representative topics will include:
1. the dynamics of language contact.
2. bilingual acquisition.
3. speakers’ minds as a locus of contact.
4. transfer effects in bilinguals.
5. understanding and evaluating theories of bilingual knowledge representation 6. language and social subordination.
7. language maintenance in minority language settings.
8. contact-induced language change.

Assessment Strategy

-threshold -C (50%): The answer must address the question. The answer must show a basic knowledge and understanding of the relevant key areas and principles of the foundational theories, constructs and methodologies of Linguistics. The student must show evidence of being able to apply the principles to the analysis of language and linguistic examples and/or data. The answer must show evidence of some background study. -good -B: The answer must be focussed and structured. The answer must show a better-than-average standard of knowledge and understanding of the foundational theories, constructs and methodologies of Linguistics. The linguistic examples used in the answer may be based upon examples from the literature but must also include original examples. The answer must show evidence of background study with at least some from primary sources. -excellent -A: The answer must be highly focused and well-structured. The answer must show comprehensive knowledge and detailed understanding. The answer must show some original interpretation, new links between topics and/or a new approach to a problem.The answer must show evidence of extensive background study using primary sources.

Learning Outcomes

• Students will able to integrate a range of linguistic, social, and political parameters in analyzing situations of language contact in various multilingual settings to an advanced standard.

• Students will be able to present concepts and ideas clearly and coherently, and plan and conduct a research project to a high level in this area.

• Students will be able to write up research papers on cutting edge topics in the area, bringing together empirical findings and theoretical issues from different domains of enquiry in order to address the central topic of language contact.

• Students will develop a sophisticated ability to analyse and critically evaluate the literature on contact linguistics, its relevance and theoretical contributions.

• Students will develop a sophisticated understanding of the main issues, outcomes, and theoretical advances in the domain of language contact.