Introduction to Linguistics and Language Learning

The course is an introduction to fundamental concepts of linguistics. Students explore the diversity, creativity, and open-endedness of language and how philosophers and language enthusiasts have for centuries attempted to understand its organization and its use in society. Traditional areas (phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and historical linguistics) are described, with examples from languages around the world. Language acquisition, bilingualism, sociolinguistics, and computers in language are examined for applications to language teaching and learning. Students explore practical applications to their area of study, whether it be the bilingual or foreign-language classroom, literary analysis, psychology, sociology, and other disciplinary interests. This course is equivalent to ENG 3700. Students will receive credit for either ENG 3700 or COM 3700.