Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit considers language from a cognitive perspective, focusing on models of language informed by what we know of how language is represented in the human brain and how it is realised by the body in speech and sign, how human language evolved and how linguistic ability develops in the normal human child. The unit also introduces basic concepts in the formal modelling of linguistic systems.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 1 core unit in the Linguistics major sequence
  • Level 1 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between language and the mind and the physical body; (2) describe the basic properties of the physical realisation of language in speech, sign and writing; (3) describe the progress of child language acquisition in the domains of phonology, morphology and syntax, and explain how the facts of acquisition are key issues in the debate on the innateness of language; (4) describe how language is localised in the brain, and how this relates to various language pathologies; and (5) describe the basic issues in the evolution of the language capacity of humans.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial preparation; (2) assignments; and (3) examination. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Luisa Miceli
Unit rules
Incompatibility
LING1102 Language as a Cognitive System
Contact hours
Up to 3 hours per week over 12 weeks.
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.