General provisions

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

Entry requirements

120 credits, of which at least 90 credits in a language subject including a degree project of at least 15 credits.

Learning outcomes

Upon completing the course students will be able to

• Account for the main linguistic features that characterise the Germanic languages compared with other Indo-European languages, as well as the main linguistic features that characterise Old English compared with other Germanic languages
• Account for important features of Old and middle English phonetics and phonology, vocabulary and orthography , and syntax, and apply those features in the production and comprehension of text in Old and Middle English
• Account for important linguistic changes that take place during and between the Old and Middle English periods
• Link linguistic developments in Old and Middle English to important historical, societal, and cultural events.

Content

The course introduces students to the prehistory, origins, and early development of the English language, and charts the development of English up to AD c1500. The module focuses on the linguistic characteristics of Early English, with special reference to phonetics and phonology, vocabulary and orthography, morphology, and syntax, but extralinguistic (e.g. societal and cultural) developments are also taken into account. Special attention is paid to the Old English period.

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 final written exam. Grades are fail, pass, or 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.