General provisions

The course is included in the Master's Programme in English.

Entry requirements

120 credits. 90 credits in a language subject.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will be able to

• describe important features of Modern English phonology, lexis, orthography, morphology, and syntax
• describe important linguistic features that characterize Early Modern English compared with Late Modern English
• describe important linguistic features that characterize Late Modern English compared with Present-day English
• discuss features of Modern English in fluent and correct English, both orally and in writing
• apply his/her knowledge of changes in Modern English phonology to the pronunciation of individual words
• compare and evaluate different descriptions of Modern English in secondary sources
• analyse Modern English text phonologically, morphologically, and syntactically
• categorize lexical innovation in Modern English etymologically with the aid of dictionaries
• construct a small empirical study of Modern English phonology, morphology, or syntax using appropriate methodology.

Content

The course introduces students to the development of English between 1500 and 1945. The course focusses on the linguistic characteristics of Modern English, with special reference to phonology, vocabulary and orthography, morphology, and syntax. The course also contains a small-scale, independent research task concerning an aspect of Modern English.

Instruction

Group sessions. Instruction, class discussions, and examinations are in English. All teaching materials are in English.

Assessment

Students are examined in the form of oral presentations, written assignments, and a small-scale empirical study. Grades are fail, pass, and pass with distinction.

Students who fail a regular examination will be offered a make-up examination within a reasonable period of time after the regular examination.

Students who fail an examination twice have the right to apply to the head of department for permission to change examiners.

Other directives

If the syllabus or the course literature for a course is changed, students have the right to be examined on the original course syllabus and course literature on three occasions during the following three terms. After these three opportunities, the right normally expires.

Transitional provisions

Please contact the student counsellor for transitional regulations in connection with changes in the curriculum.