Varieties of French
| Code | School | Level | Credits | Semesters |
| MLAC2200 | Modern Languages and Cultures | 2 | 10 | Autumn UK |
- Code
- MLAC2200
- School
- Modern Languages and Cultures
- Level
- 2
- Credits
- 10
- Semesters
- Autumn UK
Summary
This module explores different levels of linguistic variation in French both inside and outside France, focusing in particular on geographical variation, variation between standard and non-standard forms; variation in register and style; variation according to topic; and variation between oral and written forms. Linguistic and extra-linguistic reasons for this variation will be examined and the module will encourage students to evaluate the complex relationships between language, society, culture and power.
A coursework assessment will replace failed assessment components at the reassessment stage.
Target Students
Available to SH and JH UG students taking French as part of their plan. Not available to students taking MLAC2145. Available to Liberal Arts and subsidiary students who have taken MLAC1150.
Co-requisites
Modules you must take in the same academic year, or have taken in a previous year, to enrol in this module:
Classes
- One 2-hour lecture each week for 10 weeks
Assessment
- 100% Exam 1 (2-hour)
Assessed by end of autumn semester
Educational Aims
To encourage students to think about how the French language varies at a linguistic level, to examine the reasons for such linguistic variation and thereby to develop a better understanding of the relationship between language, society, culture, and power.Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and understanding
An understanding of the types of linguistic variation that exist in the French language (at the levels of French phonology, syntax, morphology and lexis)
An understanding of the ways in which this linguistic variation is related to social and demographic factors (e.g. speaker’s geographical location, socio-economic status etc.) and also to the context in which the language is used (e.g. oral vs. written French, scientific vs. legal French, formal vs. informal French)
An understanding of the ways in which language use relates to wider social, political and cultural factors
Intellectual skills
The ability to describe and analyse French scientifically, with particular regard to the different regional, stylistic and social varieties of French in France and further afield
The ability to make a practical and effective use of both French and English with a particular focus on well-structured academic English
Professional skills
An improved ability to understand non-standard varieties of French to further effective and sophisticated communication with native speakers
The ability to articulate and apply principles of linguistic analysis
The ability to present linguistic findings in line with academic conventions in both written and oral format
Transferrable skills
Improved written communication skills
The ability to carry out independent research
Good time management skills