This course aims to familiarise students with the linguistic situation in Asia. It investigates the major languages of the region from the perspective of their genetic status, their historical development and interaction, their major typological features, and their present-day social position. Sample topics will include writing systems, the role of classical varieties, patterns of borrowing, honorifics, and language standardization, with illustration from the range of Asian languages taught at the ANU.

On successful completion of this course students should be able to:
1. understand the basic terminology and issues of the field of linguistics as they pertain to the languages of Asia;
2. discuss native and non-native speakers’ attitudes towards language and writing;
3. assess the typical arguments made in linguistic discussions;
4. explain the complex attitudes people have to language, and multilingualism;
5. analyse and compare linguistic systems;
7. research linguistic issues of interest in the region’s languages and present arguments and conclusions coherently, persuasively, and meaningfully;
8. reflect on and articulate how your own views on language have developed over the course of the semester;
9. reflect on and articulate issues that you have had in your own language learning process.

One 2,500-3,000 word essay (30%),

Two 1,000 word essays (30%),

One 1,000 word language learning essay (15%)

One 1,000 word critical review of 3-4 articles (10%)

Participation in class (5%),

Participation in on-line discussion (10%)

Note that all written work apart from the online tutorial discussion is to be submitted in the Asian language the student is studying.

Permission of coordinator


Incompatible with ASIA6001


Normally delivered intensively / flexibly over two weekends (subject to student input), complemented by assignment work.



Taken as a language course only.

A collection of photocopied readings will be provided.