Module Catalogue 2024/25

Pre Requisite Comment

N/A

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module concentrates on the study of meaning at the level of pragmatics, i.e., on how we create meaning from the linguistic expressions that we utter in context (e.g., in exchanges). It introduces foundational notions in pragmatics and provides tools to analyse phenomena in the field. It further discusses pragmatics and its relation to other domains of grammar and introduces different research methods to collect and annotate data.

Outline Of Syllabus

This module will cover some of the following:
1. Different theories of pragmatics
2. Research methods in pragmatics (experimental, corpus)
3. Relationship between what is said and what is meant
4. Role of context and speaker/ writer intentions
5. Construction and negotiation of utterance meaning

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

By the end of this module, students will be able to:
- explain and evaluate key notions in pragmatic theorising;
- analyse pragmatic phenomena making use of theoretical tools;
- understand the relation between pragmatics and syntax, and pragmatics and semantics;
- apply research methods to collect data to a limited extent.

Intended Skill Outcomes

- Critical reading
- Oral and written presentation and argumentation skills
- Data analysis skills

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

LECTURES are used, primarily, to impart information and provide an overall coherence for the module. – SEMINARS are used to consolidate students’ understanding of the lecture and reading materials as well as for the planning and preparation of assignments. GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY is used for the preparation of seminar exercises as well as for the preparation and completion of assignments.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The WRITTEN EXERCISE tests students’ problem-solving and analytical skills. – The ESSAY tests students’ presentation and argumentation skills.

General Notes

N/A