Description
Module Content
The module forms the second half of an intermediate-level curriculum in language sound structure (the first half is PLIN0065 Elements of Phonetic Science). It builds on the foundations laid by PLIN0061 Introduction to Phonetics and PLIN0062 Introduction to Phonology (or equivalent first-level courses in Phonetics and Phonology). It discusses fundamental theoretical and empirical questions arising from the scientific study of languages’ sound systems. It provides participants with hands-on experience of analysing phonological data in a range of languages.
Teaching Delivery
Teaching consists of weekly lectures (2 hours) and tutorials (1 hour). In tutorial, students work on problem sets related to the concepts covered in lecture.
Indicative Topics
The module covers the prosodic hierarchy (segment, mora, syllable, foot, word) using cross-linguistically diverse datasets and introduces students to Optimality Theory.
Module Aims and/or Objectives
One aim is to provide students an empirically rich understanding of how segments are hierarchically organized into larger structures and how those structures are restricted. Another is to provide a comprehensive overview of the formal framework of Optimality Theory. By the end of the module, students should be comfortable working with the framework to analyze complex datasets.
Module deliveries for 2024/25 academic year
Last updated
This module description was last updated on 19th August 2024.
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