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Language Variation & Change - LAN00088M

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: M
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

This module is a broad introduction to sociolinguistics, with a focus on fundamental concepts and approaches involved in the study of the links between language and society. You will learn about the main ways of describing language variation, conceived primarily as variation within a single language in a speech community (e.g. social, geographical and stylistic differences in spoken English).

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

We will consider the roles of a number of concepts, such as society, social class and gender, all in the context of the speech community. The methods used in sociolinguistics, particularly language variation and change, will be introduced, and a number of key areas of the discipline will provide examples of links between linguistic and social concerns, include language 'death' and language shift.

Module learning outcomes

By the end of the module you should:

  • Be able to apply a wide range of key sociolinguistic concepts to linguistic phenomena

  • Explain how language structure is related to language use, both at the societal level (e.g. correlations with gender) and individual level (e.g. code-switching)

  • Explain and evaluate methodological choices sociolinguists make in their research

  • Articulate the role of ideology (e.g. attitudes) and identity in language

Module content

You will explore the distinction between sociolinguistics as a 'way of doing linguistics' and as a field with primarily sociological concerns.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Essay/coursework 100

Module feedback

Written feedback within 25 working days.

Indicative reading

Mesthrie, R., Swann, J., Deumert, A., & Leap, W. (2009). (2nd edition). Introducing Sociolinguistics. Edinburgh: Edinburgh University Press.

Meyerhoff, Miriam (2018). Introducing Sociolinguistics (3rd edn.). Abingdon: Routledge.
Chambers, J. K. (2008). Sociolinguistic Theory. (3rd edn.). Oxford: Wiley-Blackwell.


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.