LS2EP-English Phonology

Module Provider: English Language and Applied Linguistics
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:5
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites: LS1SG Sounds, Grammar and Meaning LS1ELS English Language and Society
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites: LS2EG English Grammar
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2021/2

Module Convenor: Prof Jane Setter
Email: J.E.Setter@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
The module looks at the phonetic and phonological patterning of speech sounds and suprasegmentals in English (near RP accent).

Aims:
This module aims to support the other Part 2 core and optional modules by familiarising students with the phonetic and phonological systems within the larger system of the English language and providing a basis for evaluating the descriptive adequacy of claims made by linguistic theories in other areas of English language study. It also aims to impart a high level of competence in the transcription of English sounds and stress, and introduce the intonation system of English (near-RP accent).

Assessable learning outcomes:
By the end of the module it is expected that the student will be able to:

• identify and explain the major elements and structures of English at the levels of phonetics and phonology;
• transcribe English from a variety of sources using appropriate notation;
• organise his/her knowledge effectively in writing under timed conditions.

Additional outcomes:
The module aims to encourage the development of general analytical skills. Students will also develop their IT skills by use of relevant web resources and experience of programmes used in the description of speech.

Outline content:
The elements and domains of the English sound system (near-RP accent); English phonemes (consonants and vowels) and their principal allophones; systems for describing these sounds; some sounds of other varieties of English; principles of assignment of English stress and intonation in words and sentences; methods of transcribing English stress and intonation.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
Interactive lectures with online support, including technology enhanced learning approaches.