Fall 2023 Special Topics Course Description

LING 411: Topics in Phonetics and Phonology

Dr. Jordan Sandoval

  • Credits: 5
  • Prerequisites: LING 311; one course from: LING 204, LING 207, or ANTH 347.
  • WP3

Topic

Optimality Theory, Markedness, and Language Acquisition

Description 

In this class we explore the role of markedness in language acquisition; both Child Language Acquisition as well as languages learned later in life. We'll situate this discussion within the phonological framework of Optimality Theory. In this class, you can expect to read and discuss a wide variety of journal articles and chapters from edited volumes, in a seminar style. A final project will involve analyzing some language acquisition data within this theoretical framework and presenting your analysis to others.