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 provides an introduction to the study of language in its socio-cultural context. Language usage and attitudes are embedded in social, cultural and historical considerations. The unit examines the main debates in the field of sociolinguistics, zooming in on the relationship between linguistic and non-linguistic aspects. The unit focuses on macro- and micro-level sociolinguistic approaches from a quantitative and a qualitative perspective.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 2UWA (Perth)Face to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 3 option in the Linguistics major sequence
  • Level 3 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) analyse the relationship between language and, society and culture; (2) apply key concepts in sociolinguistics and features of major approaches to language variation in social context; and (3) demonstrate a critical understanding of sociolinguistic concepts and methods as employed in designing, implementing and reporting the results of an original research project.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) tutorial participation; (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 Jessica Kruk
Unit rules
Prerequisites
Successful completion of
LING2008 How Language Shapes Society
Incompatibility
LING1103 Language, Culture and Society.
LING2203 Language Variation and Change, LING2003 Language, Culture and Society (taken prior to 2021)
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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.