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Language and Meaning - PHIL2020
PhilosophySpec1

 
Faculty: Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences
 
 
School:  School of History and Philosophy
 
 
Course Outline: http://philosophy.arts.unsw.edu.au/
 
 
Campus: Kensington Campus
 
 
Career: Undergraduate
 
 
Units of Credit: 6
 
 
EFTSL: 0.12500 (more info)
 
 
Indicative Contact Hours per Week: 3
 
 
Enrolment Requirements:
 
 
Prerequisite: 36 units of credit
 
 
Fee Band: 1 (more info)
 
 
Further Information: See Class Timetable
 
 

Description

An introduction to central ideas in understanding what language is and how it works. Questions addressed include: What abilities are required of language users? How can language be used to refer to the world? What is the relation between language and thought? What is meaning? How are language and community related? What are speech acts?

Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course students can expect to have developed the following competencies to a degree:
  • A broad understanding of the nature of language and how it works
  • Familiarity with a range of theories in contemporary philosophy of language (An understanding of the distinctions embodied in these theories will contribute to an ability to reflect critically on language)
  • Ability to engage in independent and reflective learning through assessing and responding to ideas in the course
  • Communication skills through participation in class discussions and tutorials.

Assessment

  • Two in-class quizzes on lecture material - 40%
  • Class quiz on course readings - 20%
  • Essay - 30%
  • Class participation - 10%

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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.