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The Linguistics of Signed Languages - LING2900
Students studying

 
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of Languages and Linguistics
 
 
Course Outline: School of Languages and Linguistic Course Outlines
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.12500 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: LING1000 or LING1500
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

Introduces the fundamental structure of natural signed languages, covering the essentials of signed language phonology, morphology and syntax, and examining the important features of all these levels of structure. Compares the basic properties of signed languages with those of spoken languages in order to see in which ways signed languages are similar to spoken languages and in which ways they differ. Examines signed languages in terms of their acquisition as first and second languages, and some sociolinguistic issues that arise for users of signed languages.

Note: Students do not need to be able to sign in order to take this course.


Learning Outcomes

At the end of this course, students should be able to:
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the principles and terminology of signed language linguistics
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the major trends in the linguistics of signed languages including their origins, strengths and weaknesses
  • Apply principles of general linguistics to the linguistics of a specific set of languages
  • Differentiate between natural and non-natural signed languages
  • Show an understanding of the nature of visual-spatial communication
  • Identify the role of particular features of signed language, such as space and non-manual marking.

Assessment

  • Assignment 1 - 20%
  • Assignment 2 - 20%
  • Test - 20%
  • Final essay (2000 words) - 40%

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© The University of New South Wales (CRICOS Provider No.: 00098G), 2004-2011. The information contained in this Handbook is indicative only. While every effort is made to keep this information up-to-date, the University reserves the right to discontinue or vary arrangements, programs and courses at any time without notice and at its discretion. While the University will try to avoid or minimise any inconvenience, changes may also be made to programs, courses and staff after enrolment. The University may also set limits on the number of students in a course.