Second language phonology

Aims

Aims

In this module students will gain an overview of current research in second language phonology, taking in both the range of methods used to investigate second language phonology as well as the range of theoretical interpretations of the results of such studies.  The module will also provide an introduction to the broader context of second language phonology, such as the ethical and/or pedagogical implications of second language phonology research.

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

Subject content

• understand the main current theories of second language phonological acquisition, and how these relate to broader theories of second language acquisition;
• explain how different types of evidence are used to support arguments in support of different theoretical positions;
• give an account of the range of factors which may result in an individual having a non-native-like accent;
• demonstrate awareness of the social and personal implications of having a non-native-like accent;
• design and carry out a small scale empirical study in the sphere of second language phonological acquisition.

Academic and graduate skills

• demonstrate the ability to manage a project and bring it to completion;
• evaluate competing interpretations of evidence;
• develop a hypothesis from the predictions of a theory or model;
• relate abstact theoretical concepts to real-world applications.

Prerequisites

Prerequisites

Phonetics & Phonology OR Advanced phonetics OR Advanced phonology

Programme

Programme

Teaching programme

The programme will consist of four units:

• Key concepts: the L1 filter vs. age as factors
• Methods: investigating production and perception in second language phonology
• Interpretations: L1 transfer vs. markedness vs. the perceptual filter
• Applications: ethical and pedagogical implications

In each unit there will be one lecture plus two seminars and two practicals.  Practical workshops will be used for students to develop work for assessment (design and implementation of a small scale study in second language phonology).

Teaching materials

Key texts:

• Cutler, A. (2012). Native listening: Language experience and the recognition of spoken words. MIT Press.
• Hansen Edwards, J.G. & Zampini, M.L. (2008). Phonology and second language acquisition. John Benjamins.

as well as set readings from the primary research literature.

Assessment

Assessment

Formative work

• Exercises

Summative work

• 5,000 word research essay