Advanced topics at the interfaces of syntax

Aims

Aims

The main aim of this module is to explore further the nature of the interfaces by focusing on issues surrounding Information Structure. We examine its syntactic and semantic expression across languages. We concentrate on establishing the parameters of variation with respect to information structure notions.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites

LAN00063M - Issues in the Syntax & Semantics Interface.

NB This module will not be available to students who have taken “Information Structure”(LAN00034H) as undergraduates.

Programme

Programme

Contact hours

The course lasts for one term. There is a 1½ hour lecture and 1½ hour seminar each week.

Teaching programme

At the end of this module students will have:

• an in-depth understanding of the notions of information structure such as Topic, Focus and Givenness;
• the ability to recognise and analyse the different strategies that languages employ in order to signal information structure status;
• the ability to construct and deploy cogent syntactic, semantic and phonological arguments in the analysis of the relevant phenomena;
• an understanding of the parameters of variation in information structure and more generally on matters relating to interface notions.

Students will also perfect their presentation skills, teamwork and research management

Teaching materials

Assessment

Assessment

• 5,000 word essay