Key facts
UNE unit code: LING505
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Not offered in 2027
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information
Language is the spoken and written system by which we communicate. Studying this unit offers you a chance to delve into the meaning-making properties of language. The unit begins with an introduction to some of the foundational concepts in the study of semantics such as ‘what is a concept?’
You’ll then move on to some of the key approaches towards word and sentence meanings. You’ll discover how the mental lexicon is organised as well as how meanings vary and change over time.
In the second part of the unit you’ll consider how meaning is made in context. You will examine how a simple sentence like ‘It’s cold in here’ could serve as an observation or a request and explore how considerations such as power relations, interpersonal knowledge and politeness shape the way speakers create meaning together.
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- explain and critique several theoretical and analytical approaches in contemporary linguistic semantics;
- effectively communicate the core findings of lexical semantics and apply them to dynamic, real-world scenarios Apply knowledge and skills to critique common misconceptions about semantic change;
- explain and critique the core findings of pragmatics research including the role of implicature, directness, politeness, and interactional context in meaning making;
- incorporate multiple perspectives in undertaking critical reflection on the role of meaning in language; and
- apply the knowledge developed in the unit to undertake self-directed exploration of specific areas of semantics or pragmatics.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Online Discussions | No | 5% | All offerings | Structured Discussions online No. Words: 1000 |
| Online Worksheet 1 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | multiple choice, short answer, plus 1-2 paragraph analytical questions No. Words: 1500 |
| Online Worksheet 2 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | multiple choice, short answer, plus 1-2 paragraph analytical questions No. Words: 1500 |
| Research essay/project | Yes | 55% | All offerings | No. Words: 2500-3000 |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Textbook information will be displayed approximately 8 weeks prior to the commencement of the teaching period. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
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