Latest Module Specifications
Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026
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Description This module aims to introduce students to some key areas in the study of language, enabling them to develop the skills and knowledge required of students of languages and linguistics. It will provide an introduction to language and the brain, and the characteristics of human language. Students will also learn about parts of speech, morphology, and the sounds of English. They will subsequently learn about the processes involved in language acquisition, including some key theories and debates. Finally, this module will introduce students to some contemporary issues in the study of language and society, such as gender, identity, and regional variation, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real world contexts. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Learning Outcomes 1. Describe and explain key concepts, processes, and theories related to the nature and origin of human language. 2. Identify and analyse the morphological and syntactic structure of English phrases and sentences. 3. Explain how meaning is constructed and interpreted in context through semantics and pragmatics. 4. Recognise the cognitive and neurological foundations of language, and explain key stages in first language acquisition. 5. Describe patterns of regional variation in English and analyse how language reflects cultural and social identity. 6. Apply linguistic theories to real-world examples of language use, including variation, meaning, and communication. 7. Work collaboratively on group projects that develop analytical, creative, and digital literacy skills. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml |
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Indicative Content and Learning Activities
Indicative Content and Assessment Students will participate in synchronous and asynchronous activities designed to enhance their subject knowledge, as well as engaging with regular reading material and other multimedia. They will be assessed through group projects and individual tasks. For group projects stidents will use digital platforms such as Canva, Padlet, and VoiceThread, which will enable them to develop their communicative skills, collaborative skills, creativity, and time management. Group projects will also enable students to source, present and discuss reliable information, which will contribute to the development of their digital literacy skills. Individual tasks will enable students to apply their knowledge to ‘real world’ contexts and hands-on activities. Indicative Content: Ch. 1: The origins of language Ch. 2: Animals and human language Ch. 6–10: Morphology, Grammar, Syntax, Semantics, Pragmatics Ch. 12–13: Language and the brain, First language acquisition Ch. 18: Language and regional variation Ch. 20: Language and culture MAIN TEXT: George Yule. (2023). The Study of Language [8th edition]. Cambridge University Press. Access on-line [through DCU library]: https://www.cambridge.org/highereducation/books/the-study-of-language/FFAD6D438AEC1F023DF700ECB66DF022?utm_campaign=shareaholic&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=bookmark | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Indicative Reading List Books:
Articles: None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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Other Resources None | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||