This course, taught by a specialist in the history of English grammar, investigates the elements of the English language and how these elements are organised in such a way as to allow speakers and writers to combine them to convey messages which can be instantly decoded by listeners (readers). The emphasis will be on grammar (syntax and morphology), although we will also explore some of the connections between grammar and semantics. In the first and larger part of the course, students will be introduced to the grammar of Standard Modern English, learning terminology and analytical techniques which linguists use to build on and modify traditional grammar. The structural characteristics of English will be compared with those of other languages where appropriate. The last third of the course will deal with variation in English, including regional, social and stylistic variation.  Special attention will be paid to ‘new Englishes' which have arisen as a result of the learning of English as a second language by people whose first language is not English.  A course website is used which includes unique interactive exercises designed by the lecturer to develop students' analytical skills.

1,500-1,800 word paper (30%), two practical assignments (40%) and two-hour open book final examination (30%).

Completion of 24 units in Arts or Asian Studies or with the written permission of the lecturer. Students in their second or third year of university study will normally take LING2020; first-year students will normally take LING1020.

LENG1020, LING1020 and LENG2020 Structure of English

Burridge, K and Mulder, J, English in Australia and New Zealand, Oxford University Press 1998