English and drama

Semantics

Module code: Q3161
Level 5
15 credits in spring semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Lecture
Assessment modes: Coursework

This module examines what happens when words are combined in phrases and sentences.

You will survey major topics in the study of linguistic meaning, including:

• definiteness (e.g. ‘a word’ versus ‘the word’)
• deixis (e.g. ‘here you go’ versus ‘there you go’)
• tense (e.g. ‘I go tomorrow’ versus ‘I will go tomorrow’)
• aspect (e.g. ‘I went’ versus ‘I was going’ versus ‘I had gone’)
• modality (‘you may/can/must/should go’).

Module learning outcomes

• Demonstrate fundamental skills for describing and analysing meaning in sentential contexts.
• Demonstrate knowledge of major concepts in non-lexical semantics.
• Demonstrate skills in formulating and clearly expressing semantic argumentation in academically appropriate manners.