Key facts
UNE unit code: EDLA503
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 1 - On Campus
- Trimester 1 - Online
- Armidale Campus
- Yes
- No
- No
- 6
Unit information

Language is one of the major elements which defines a culture. In fact, there is a fundamental relationship between language and culture.
This unit explores the critical relationship between language and culture and analyses how people communicate within their own socio-cultural group and across cultures.
You will explore language variation, both regional and social, from sociolinguistic, eco-linguistic and functional perspectives.
You will be given tools for investigating language use in multilingual and intercultural communities, and for considering the implications of your findings for language education. You will also develop critical strategies for teaching intercultural competence in language education.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 1 | On Campus, Armidale Campus |
| Trimester 1 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
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:
- develop critical awareness of the relationship between language, social factors and culture;
- analyse regional and social language variation from sociolinguistic, eco-linguistic and functional perspectives;
- investigate language use in multicultural and intercultural communities; and
- develop critical strategies for teaching intercultural competence in language education.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 30% | All offerings | Essay No. Words: 3000 |
| Assessment 2 - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Presentation It is mandatory to pass this assessment in order to pass the unit. No. Words: 3000 |
| Assessment 3 | Yes | 20% | All offerings | Online quiz No. Words: 1000 |
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.
Note: Students are expected to purchase prescribed material. Please note that textbook requirements may vary from one teaching period to the next.
An Introduction to Sociolinguistics
ISBN: 9780367421106
Holmes, J. and Wilson, N., Routledge 6th ed. 2022
Text refers to: All offerings
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