ENG 611D - Theories of Syntax

(3 units)

We explore the assumptions, analytical tools, and methodologies of formalist and functionalist theories and their connection to broader intellectual and scientific trends, including how insights from these frameworks intersect with social concerns. We also apply the scientific method to the structure of phrases and sentences, including a study of structural definitions of parts of speech; constituency and hierarchy in linguistic structure; syntactic phrase structure rules; and constructions.

Maximum units a student may earn: 3

Grading Basis: Graded
Units of Lecture: 3
Offered: Every Fall

Student Learning Outcomes
Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
1. assess and analyze linguistic problems in syntactic structure in English and in a variety of other languages.
2. explain and illustrate the differences between scientific and non-scientific claims about language.
3. apply principles and theories to language data from English and a variety of other languages.
4. explain and illustrate the scientific process as it applies to the analysis of language data.
5. demonstrate how insights from morphology inform problems of societal concern.
6. demonstrate mastery of primary data and/or secondary literature through a research project in syntactic theory and analysis.

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