SPAN3013 Transatlantic Crossings: Linguistic Variation in the Iberian Peninsula and Latin America
Module Overview
The focus of this course is dialectal variation, the emphasis being on the spoken rather than the written word. It offers you an approachable introduction to the concept of accent through the examination of linguistic data such as speech recordings and written transcriptions. Initially, you will gain a solid grounding in the general but relevant linguistic tenets through a short series of tutor-led lectures. You will then be introduced to the historical and geographical development of dialectal variation, including Castilian, other Peninsula and Latin American varieties, Galician, Catalan, European and Brazilian Portuguese.
Aims and Objectives
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge and Understanding
Having successfully completed this module, you will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:
- the general historical development and geographical location of the linguistic variation found in the Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking worlds
- fieldwork methodologies and their basic applications in dialectal analysis
- the linguistic concepts involved
Subject Specific Intellectual and Research Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- evaluate linguistic data using theoretical models regarding spatial provenance
- explain and analyse the significance of linguistic data
- synthesise your own commentaries using the models
- demonstrate a sound understanding of the concepts involved
Transferable and Generic Skills
Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:
- demonstrate written communication skills through the development of ideas and arguments in a variety of written formats
- demonstrate oral communication skills through the development of ideas and arguments informally in class and within formal presentations
- show your capacity for teamwork and demonstrate interpersonal skills by working with other students, by problem solving, information gathering and presenting your findings collaboratively
- display individual learning, study and performance skills and time management through your independent learning activities
- show that you have developed your linguistic skills by demonstrating your appreciation of the Spanish- and Portuguese- speaking worlds as multifaceted
- display both self-confidence and self-awareness in your studies
Syllabus
The focus of this module is dialectal variation, primarily in the Spanish- but also in the Portuguese- speaking world, the emphasis being on the spoken rather than the written word. It offers you an approachable introduction to the concept of accent through the examination of linguistic data such as speech recordings and written transcriptions. Initially, you will gain a solid grounding in the general but relevant linguistic tenets through a short series of tutor-led lectures. You will then be introduced to the historical and geographical development of dialectal variation, including Castilian, other Peninsula and Latin American varieties, Galician, Catalan, European and Brazilian Portuguese. The seminar class will then provide you with an opportunity to discuss issues raised and to demonstrate your appreciation of the phonetic variation of each of the major dialect families therein, as well as their interrelated linguistic structures. The second part of the module will integrate more task-based practical exercises and student presentations. In order to provide you with a chance to evaluate linguistic data using theoretical models, it will involve the deciphering of dialectal and accentual cues and the pinpointing of the information gained onto maps and charts. This will also require you to apply phonetic transcription analyses and techniques to both speech recordings and written text. In this way, you will come to appreciate, articulate and apply the relevant linguistic concepts. Throughout, you will be offered guidance with respect to your independent learning activities and research. Your presentation contributions will be used to provide you with informal feedback so that you can evaluate your progress, knowledge and understanding of the module objectives and content.
Learning and Teaching
Teaching and learning methods
Teaching methods include Lectures Seminars Group work sessions Learning activities include Individual and group study and empirical research Preparing and delivering presentations on dialectal variation Recording of accents and dialects using online resources Innovative or special features of this module Fieldwork data collection
| Type | Hours |
|---|---|
| Independent Study | 126 |
| Teaching | 24 |
| Total study time | 150 |
Resources & Reading list
Lipski, J (1994). Latin American Spanish.
Azevedo, Milton Mariano (2005). Portuguese: a linguistic introduction.
Hualde, J.I., Olarrea, A. Escobar, A.M (2001). Introducción a la Lingüística Hispánica.
Chambers, Jack and Trudgill, Peter (1998). Dialectology.
Siguan, M (1992). España Plurilingüe.
Penny, R (2000). Variation and Change in Spanish.
Pountain, C (2003). Exploring the Spanish Language.
Catalan, Diego (1989). El Español. Orígenes de su diversidad.
Beswick, Jaine. Regional Nationalisms in Spain: Language Use and Ethnic Identity in Galicia.
Assessment
Assessment Strategy
Assessments designed to provide informal, on-module feedback Individual and group class presentations Dialectal mapping exercises Transcription exercises
Summative
| Method | Percentage contribution |
|---|---|
| Assignment (2500 words) | 50% |
| Composition (2000 words) | 40% |
| Presentation (10 minutes) | 10% |
Repeat Information
Repeat type: Internal & External
Linked modules
SPAN2010