Unit information: The Structure of German in 2008/09

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Unit name The Structure of German
Unit code GERM29004
Credit points 20
Level of study I/5
Teaching block(s) Teaching Block 1 (weeks 1 - 12)
Unit director Professor. Langer
Open unit status Not open
Pre-requisites

None
Co-requisites

None
School/department Department of German
Faculty Faculty of Arts

Description including Unit Aims

In this unit we will investigate the systemic properties of modern standard German, i.e. its phonology, morphology, and syntax. We will investigate the relationships between vowels and consonants, the way words are formed and the way German grammar differs from that of other languages, and we will unravel the mysteries of German syntax by showing how verbs move. Apart from an understanding of the technical properties of linguistic analysis, we will also touch on the fields of psycholinguistics, child language acquisition, language disorders, and language in animals.

Aims:

  • To introduce students to the formal aspects of the German language
  • To develop an understanding of the differences between language as a means of communication and a formal system of interacting components
  • To complement / provide a good basis for other linguistics units in the German Department.

Intended Learning Outcomes

  • To develop their ability for critical analysis, informed discussion and independent thought.

Teaching Information

1 lecture and 1 seminar per week in one semester.

Assessment Information

i. 1x 2 hour examination

ii. 1 x 2,000 word essay

Reading and References

Fox, Anthony. 2006. The Structure of German. OUP.

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