1015.06 - Language Usage

1015.06

Language Usage

8

To train the student to analyse the language usage of selected fields and provide him or her with a theoretical framework for such analyses.

A selection of oral and written non-fiction texts will be analyzed from a variety of scholarly perspectives, including style, rhetoric, socio-linguistics, or discursiveness. The texts could be examples of the language found in, e.g. political, sports, scientific, news media, or training materials. Texts representing other selected areas such as the language of children and youth could also be reviewed. Theories on style and usage shall be studied in connection with the analysis of linguistic examples to facilitate, on the one hand, an understanding of language diversity, and on the other to gain insight into the preservation of language integrity and the evaluation of what constitutes excellent and poor language. Students shall be provided opportunities to evaluate and create language for a variety of purposes. Examination The student shall adequately • discuss the theories explored during the course • analyze a text with regard to its language usage and style • analyze a text in relation to theory Reading List Approximately 200 pages discussing the theory of language usage and a suitable selection of sample texts.

2 lectures per week over the course of 2 terms or the equivalent.

The student may elect either • a written 6-hour examination. The student shall come with no prepared text materials. All required texts will be distributed at the time of the exam, or • an oral examination with a 30-minute preparation time. Internal examiners.