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Semantic Theory - LAN00024M

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25

Module summary

The goal of this module is to serve as an introduction to, and overview of, the study of meaning in natural language. It will focus on discussing several core issues in semantics and pragmatics, as well as some of the approaches taken to studying them.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2024-25

Module aims

This module introduces you to more advanced notions in semantics. It will both introduce new topics, and investigate more deeply into some of the topics covered in the first term. When possible, it will also include data from a wider range of languages. Unlike the first semantics module, much of this module will be based on reading research articles in semantics.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module students will be able to do the following:

  • Understand key ideas in semantic theory

  • Understand how semantic theory is informed by research into a variety of languages, both familiar and unfamiliar to the students

  • Engage with the semantic literature

  • Develop critical arguments in semantics

Module content

The following topics may be brought up in the module:

  • Plurality

  • Count vs. Mass

  • Non-determiner quantifiers

  • Intensional semantics

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Every week, you will do exercises and receive in-class oral feedback

For submitted assessments, you will receive individual written feedback within 25 working days of your submission.

Indicative reading

TBA


The information on this page is indicative of the module that is currently on offer. The University constantly explores ways to enhance and improve its degree programmes and therefore reserves the right to make variations to the content and method of delivery of modules, and to discontinue modules, if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary. In some instances it may be appropriate for the University to notify and consult with affected students about module changes in accordance with the University's policy on the Approval of Modifications to Existing Taught Programmes of Study.