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Instructor Class Description

Time Schedule:

Julia R. Herschensohn
LING 580
Seattle Campus

Problems in Linguistics

Advanced study in current theories of syntax, semantics, phonology, or morphology. Can be repeated for credit.

Class description

This seminar will introduce students to a range of perspectives on early bilingualism (early defined as infancy through the end of elementary school), focusing on biological development and childhood education. It will consider both psycholinguistic aspects of bilingual development and sociocultural and political dimension of growing up bilingually.

Student learning goals

Familiarity with physiological correlates of bilingualism

Recognition of characteristics related to age of acquisition and proficiency level

Understanding similarities and differences between “natural” acquisition and formal learning

Gaining knowledge of the impact of bilingualism on children’s identity

Distinguishing bilingual education for both language majority and minority children

Recognizing the role and methods of heritage language maintenance

General method of instruction

Readings of texts and articles, seminar discussion, student presentations and research paper.

Recommended preparation

Foundation in basic linguistics, familiarity with issues in language acquisition.

Class assignments and grading

Reading, evaluation of proposals in linguistics and other cognitive sciences, original research project.

Participation and oral presentations, Project.


The information above is intended to be helpful in choosing courses. Because the instructor may further develop his/her plans for this course, its characteristics are subject to change without notice. In most cases, the official course syllabus will be distributed on the first day of class.
Last Update by Julia R. Herschensohn
Date: 07/26/2007