English Phonetics and Phonology (ENG195)
The course provides the student with a broad introduction to English phonetics and phonology, and to the study of English accents. It focuses on the sound systems of two model accents of English (Received Pronunciation and General American), including intonation patterns as well as consonants and vowels. In addition, it introduces the topics of accent variation, sound change and international variants of English. The course gives an overview of basic concepts and terminology within phonetics and phonology, combined with practical exercises.
Course description for study year 2024-2025. Please note that changes may occur.
Course code
ENG195
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
15
Semester tution start
Spring
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Spring
Language of instruction
English
Content
Learning outcome
Knowledge
The student will gain knowledge of
- the English sound system
- the processes of English connected speech
- the main intonation patterns in English and their functions
- the differences between British English and American English pronunciation based on the model accents Received Pronunciation (RP) and General American (GA)
- the main differences between these and other major accents of English, and the concept of sound change
- the most common problems in the acquisition of English pronunciation, with special reference to Norwegian learners
Skills
By the end of the course, the student will be able to
- explain how English sounds are articulated
- read and produce phonemic transcriptions
- identify processes that take place in English connected speech
- explain the basic functions of English intonation
- distinguish between the RP and GA accents and describe the main differences between them
- explain why certain aspects of English pronunciation may cause problems to second-language learners, especially Norwegian ones
General competence
By the end of the course, the students will be able to
- understand how speech sounds are used to create meaning
- apply their knowledge of English phonetics and phonology to improve their own pronunciation, in further studies of languages and linguistics and in teaching
- understand how English accents vary and change
- be able to express themselves in appropriate academic English
Required prerequisite knowledge
Recommended prerequisites
Exam
Midterm exam and oral exam
Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
---|---|---|---|---|
Midterm exam | 1/3 | 4 Hours | Letter grades | None permitted |
Oral exam | 2/3 | 30 Minutes | Letter grades | None permitted |
The student has to pass both the midterm and the final to pass the course.English language and academic writing skills are taken into account in the grading, as well as the course content.
Coursework requirements
Regular attendance is strongly recommended, as the course contains a large element of hands-on practice.
In order to take the final oral exam, students must have passed the three assignments. In addition, they must have attended at least five group seminars.
Students who get one or more assignment assessed as not approved at their first attempt, are given one opportunity to hand in a revised assignment.
Course teacher(s)
Course coordinator:
Oliver Martin TraxelCourse teacher:
Nancy Marie WoodStudy Adviser:
Anne Marie NygaardStudy Adviser:
Margrethe MelinMethod of work
Overlapping courses
Course | Reduction (SP) |
---|---|
The Sounds of English (ENG140_1) | 10 |
The Sounds of English (MENG140_1) | 10 |
English Words and Sounds (ÅEN140_1) | 10 |
The Sounds of English (ÅEN140_2) | 10 |
English Phonetics and Phonology (LENG195_1) | 15 |