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Neurolinguistics: Language & the Brain - LAN00035H

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: H
  • Academic year of delivery: 2023-24

Module summary

The module aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the neural bases of language, focusing on areas involved in language comprehension, with a particular emphasis on the relationship between neurolinguistics and linguistic theory.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 2 2023-24

Module aims

  • The module aims to provide an overview of the current state of knowledge regarding the neural bases of language, focusing on areas involved in language comprehension.

  • The module further aims to help the students understand the relationship between neurolinguistics and linguistic theory.

Module learning outcomes

  • Understand the basics of neurocognition, including basic knowledge of brain anatomy and neuroimaging methods

  • Know a state-of-the-art picture of the neural bases of language and language processing

  • Know how neurolinguistics both informs and is informed by linguistic theory

  • Have experience reading and critiquing primary research in neurolinguistics

Module content

The module will cover the following topics:

  • A brief summary of brain anatomy and function

  • An introduction to the methodologies used in studying the brain, including aphasiology and technologies such as fMRI, EEG, and MEG.

  • An overview of the neurolinguistic understanding of various linguistic topics, including speech perception, reading, the lexicon, morphology, syntax and semantics.

  • An in-depth look at one or two narrow areas of research, to allow the students to get a sense of what the neurolinguistic literature looks like. The specific topics will vary each year.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 65
Open Exam (6-day week) 35

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 65
Open Exam (6-day week) 35

Module feedback

Written and oral feedback for formative work within 1-2 weeks.

Written feedback for summative work within 25 days.

Indicative reading

Brennan, Jonathan R. (2022) Language and the brain: A slim guide to neurolinguistics. Oxford University Press


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.