Issues in Syntax

DESCRIPTION:
Introduction to key issues of syntactic description of English and syntactic theory and argumentation through analysis of natural language data, testing of hypotheses and evaluation of results.

RATIONALE: 
This course introduces students to the study of sentence structure. Looking at data from a wide range of languages, we will examine key issues in syntax, such as constituency structure, phrase structure rules and movement. Relevant theoretical work will be outlined and discussed and students will have the opportunity to analyse and relate data to theory in a principled manner.They will also be encouraged to evaluate theoretical claims in the light of the observations drawn. As such, students will become familiar with the empirical method and will learn the important role of description in supporting and testing theoretical claims.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
Upon successful completion of this course, the student should be able to:
1. Analyze and interpret data from English and other languages;
2. Explain the complexity of structure and justify counterexamples;
3. Construct phrase-structure markers, the purpose of which is to provide a comprehensive representation of syntactic constituency and operations;
4. Describe, evaluate and explain the basic theoretical constructs underlying formal linguistic theory;
5. Develop critical thinking and problem solving skills through: i) analysis and explanation of cross-linguistic data as well as, ii) familiarization with relevant field-related literature;
6. Evaluate and discuss orally (a) pre-approved article(s).

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING:
In congruence with the teaching and learning strategy of the college, the following tools are used:
• Lectures, class discussions, workshop-style pair work and group work during class meetings; 
• Formative exercises and online learning tasks through the Blackboard online tools designed to help students acquire confidence and benefit from independent study;
• Additional print and audiovisual educational material posted on the Blackboard course template;
• Timely instructor feedback on assignments;
• Other relevant educational material placed on reserve in the library;
• Individualized assistance during office hours for further discussion of lecture material, additional reading, assignments and examinations;
• Close collaboration with the Library and SASS to encourage students’ effective use of academic support services.