This course introduces students to the basic problems in the study of meaning, in all areas of language (vocabulary, grammar, discourse). Students learn how to use the Natural Semantic Metalanguage approach; formulate and test hypotheses about what a word, an expression or a construction means; how to state this meaning in a clear, precise and illuminating way; and how to compare meanings across languages and cultures. They will also learn some of the basic ideas and techniques of Formal Semantics, for analyzing meaning-based properties and relations of words and utterance, such as entailment and contradiction, and how NSM and Formal Semantics relate to other approaches to the study of meaning, such as componential analysis.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. Grasp key issues involved in the study of semantic fields;
2. Explore the meanings of an expression in a systematic manner;
3. Solve simple problems in semantic analysis;
4. Explain the basic goals of several different approaches to semantics.

Generic skills:  Communication, problem-solving, and research. 

1. 2 x Assignments, 25% each, 2-3 pages of data and instructions, calling for 3-5 pages of analysis; [LOs 2,3]
2. 1 x 1500-2000 word essay, 25%; [LOs 1,2,4]
3. 1 x 2 hour Final Exam, 25%; [LOs 1,2,3]

2.6 contact hours/week in lectures (with considerable discussion) + 7.4 hours readings, assessment items per week.

No special assumed knowledge or skills beyond the prerequisite statement.

Introduction to the Study of Language LING1001/LING2001 or Cross-Cultural Communication LING1021/2021, or with permission of Lecturer.

LING6008 Semantics

The textbook will be specified on Wattle, and additional readings provided there.

Wierzbicka, Anna. 2006. English : Meaning and culture. New York : OUP.

This course is required for Honours in Linguistics.