Patterns, Functions and the Description of English
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| ENGL3076 | English | 3 | 20 | Autumn Malaysia |
- Code
- ENGL3076
- School
- English
- Level
- 3
- Credits
- 20
- Semesters
- Autumn Malaysia
Summary
The module examines approaches to the description of patterns and structures of the English language. It introduces grammatical models with a focus on the relationship between patterns and meanings in context. The module will explore differences between grammatical descriptions of spoken and written language, it will investigate the interplay of lexis and grammar, and it will ask what kind of generalizations about the English language can usefully form the basis for reference grammars. The module gives particular emphasis to approaches that are informed by evidence of language use and it will explore the applicability of these approaches to examples of language in context, particularly in terms of varieties of World English in the local context.
Target Students
Year 3 students on BA English Language and Literature and BA ELL with Creative Writing.
Classes
- One 3-hour seminar each week for 12 weeks
Activities may take place every teaching week of the Semester or only in specified weeks. It is usually specified above if an activity only takes place in some weeks of a Semester
Assessment
- 50% Coursework 1: 2500-word essay
- 50% Exam 1 (2-hour-30-minute): 2.5 hours exam
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
This module aims to provide students withAn introduction to different models of grammatical descriptionAn opportunity to develop a critical understanding of issues in the description of the English languageLearning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
- Students will be familiar with different approaches to the description of patterns and structures of the English language
- Students will be able to understand how meaning is construed through linguistic choices and how patterns are associated with functions.Intellectual skills
- Students will be able to analyse examples of language using different models and approaches
- Student will be able to critically assess different approaches to the grammatical description of the English language Professional practical skills
- Students will be able to engage in the discussions about linguistic models
- Students will be able to produce an assignment to a professional disciplinary standard Transferable (key) skills
- Students will be able to work productively with others
- Students will be able to communicate effectively in writing
Conveners
- Dr Melissa Yoong