BA (Hons) English Language

Summary 2012/13

• Join one of the UK's most respected departments which prides itself on its dynamic and modern programme, awarded a 90% overall satisfaction rating in the 2010 National Student Survey - placing us within the top third of English courses nationally;
• Discover the fascinating world of English Language, both spoken and written, and understand its international influence;
• Develop a range of specialist and transferable skills that employers want.

Our well-established English Language course immerses you in the story of English, its past, present and future. You will acquire the skills to analyse linguistic data and you will learn how to apply different theoretical perspectives in researching English Language. You will discover the diversity of English, both spoken and written, in this country and internationally, and appreciate how language contributes to the identities of its users.

2012 Entry Requirements

280 UCAS tariff points overall. A level English preferred.

BA (Hons) Drama and English Language: Performing Arts or a related subject at grade C at A level or equivalent preferred. The selection process normally includes an audition workshop.

BA (Hons) English Language and History: Preferably to include A level History.

Details

Who is this course for?

Our students are all different but they share a genuine interest in discovering more about the English Language, and they all experience a dynamic and modern programme which takes into account the very latest scholarship and research. English Language at Edge Hill appeals to students of many backgrounds, but all modules will develop your specialist and key skills, stimulate and educate, and give you an excellent basis for a variety of career options or for further study.

What will I gain from this programme?

A degree in English Language can prepare you for a variety of jobs, it can also develop attributes such as communication skills, independent thinking and self-expression. This course will give you a greater appreciation of the written and spoken word, it will challenge you and broaden your horizons.

What will I study?

In Year 1 you are introduced to major aspects of English language: its structure, sound system and variation in addition to social issues, such as the implications of accent and dialect. The core module is an introduction to, or consolidation of, fundamental skills in the analysis and description of the English language. It promotes critical engagement with a range of attitudes to language in use and an understanding of the relationship between the English language and society.

Other first year modules develop your knowledge and understanding of the levels of language, encourage extended engagement with language variety and variation, and explore the linguistic characteristics of different genres of written and spoken English. Additionally you will be supported in acquiring English-language specific study skills which will help you succeed at degree level.

In Years 2 and 3 you can study modules focusing on various aspects of the history and development of the English language, including English as a global language. You can focus on linguistic analysis, such as grammar, or phonetics and phonology, and you can study a range of sociolinguistic aspects of language, such as language, gender and sexuality, or bilingualism.

Other modules consider applied aspects of language study, such as language and education, forensic linguistics or TESOL. Additionally, in the third year you can choose to write an 8,000 word dissertation on a linguistic phenomenon that interests you.

How will I study?

Teaching and learning activities are varied, with traditional lectures and seminar-based learning complemented by student participation in workshops, student-led presentations, independent research projects and group activities. You will also make use of extensive online resources with the assistance of English language staff.

Who will be teaching me?

You will be taught by a group of dedicated and enthusiastic tutors who are experts in their field. They teach English Language at undergraduate and postgraduate level and also publish books, contribute to academic journals and speak at international conferences. They are committed to providing students with an excellent learning experience and update modules regularly to ensure that they are current and relevant. You will be carefully guided, no matter what area of English you decide to study.

How will I be assessed?

Assessment across the programme involves a mixture of coursework and formal tests or examinations. Most emphasis is placed on work produced in your own time or formally presented in class. Typically, you can expect to be assessed on essays, linguistic analyses, class tests and group work.

What are my career prospects?

You will graduate well placed for a career in areas such as teaching (further training required), speech therapy, library work, media, journalism, arts administration, publishing, public and voluntary sectors, and managerial work. The degree also provides an excellent foundation for further academic study.

A Great Study Environment

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities, more than 1,000 rooms in halls of residence and fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You'll get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top four in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

Apply online through UCAS at www.ucas.ac.uk.

See our How to Apply pages for more information on the application process and our Admissions criteria.

Fees and Finance

For academic year 2012/13, Edge Hill University will charge £9,000 for full-time BA, BSc and LLB degrees. Eligible students will not have to pay upfront for their tuition. The cost of tuition will be paid by a loan which you will only start to repay once you have finished the course and are earning over £21,000.

Eligible full-time students can also apply for a maintenance grant, subject to household income, and a non-means-tested loan to help with living costs.

Edge Hill University offers a range of scholarships for prospective full-time students. These include £2,000 Entrance Scholarships rewarding determination, commitment and achievement in creative arts, performing arts, sport and volunteering. Eligible entrants with outstanding grades are recognised through the £1,000 High Achievers Scholarship.

The University will also be offering awards, worth £3,000 in cash benefits and fee/accommodation waivers for academic year 2012/13, to eligible prospective full-time students through the National Scholarship Programme.

For more information on scholarships, including eligibility criteria for each award, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/scholarships.

To find out more about fees, grants and loans for academic year 2012/13, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/undergradfees2012.

Please note, the above information is for UK and eligible EU students only. International students should check the fees and finance information at www.edgehill.ac.uk/internationalfees2012.

Not got the entry requirements?

Students returning to education may present their previous experience in work (paid or unpaid) to support their application.

Students with relevant study through either a professional body or appropriate academic course can apply to join the programme at an advanced stage.

For personalised advice based on your circumstances, please contact us or come to an event.

Where can I find out more?

If you would like to receive a copy of our prospectus or be kept updated about forthcoming events, contact the Course Information, Advice and Guidance Team by emailing study@edgehill.ac.uk or calling 01695 657000.

If you want to attend one of our open events held throughout the year, visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/opendays to book your place.

You will also find Edge Hill University staff at many national careers fairs and UCAS events.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about this course, please contact:

• Rob Spence, Department of English and History, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, Lancashire, L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 584390
• Email: spencro@edgehill.ac.uk

Overseas students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk for further information.

Combinations

Joint

• BA (Hons) Creative Writing and English Language (WQ83)
• BA (Hons) Drama and English Language (WQ43)
• BA (Hons) English Language and Film Studies (QP33)
• BA (Hons) English Language and History (QV3C)

Combined

• BA (Hons) English Language with Creative Writing (Q1W8)
• BA (Hons) English Language with Film Studies (Q1W6)
• BA (Hons) English Language with History (Q1V1)

Modules

Year 1

The Structure of English investigates the formal features of English by exploring its grammar. You will explore the major elements of English grammar and how they are used in practice

Studying English Language introduces you to a variety of English Language topics that linguists research. You will also explore the different methodologies involved in linguistic research

Sound and Style in English explores the formal features of both spoken and written discourse. You will discover how speech sounds are produced by humans and how they are used linguistically to form spoken language. In addition, you will study how writers are able to produce particular styles of language.

Variation in English. Why doesn’t everyone speak with the same accent? Why do we prefer some accents of English to others? What happens when speakers of a language, such as English, come into contact with speakers of another language? This module addresses such questions.

Describing Discourse explores aspects of spoken and written discourse, investigating how they are constructed and understood.

Year 2

LNG2100 History and Development of English examines what English was like earlier in its development (from Old English), to account for its present form, and to understand current changes. It develops key transferable skills of close reading, and encourages open-minded analysis of change, particularly in grammar and vocabulary.

LNG2101 Approaches to Sociolinguistic Variation looks at the major social factors that govern language use and language variation. It concentrates on the linguistic expression of social status and group solidarity and the ways in which change in society is affecting language.

LNG2102 The Language of Shakespeare and his Time examines what English was like at the time of Shakespeare and focuses on important significant differences (such as alternation between 'thou' and 'you') to promote fuller understanding of his plays. Rhetoric and contemporary debates about language provide the necessary context for appreciation of Shakespeare's linguistic artistry and some aspects of humour.

LNG2103 Child Language Acquisition introduces the phenomenon of how children acquire their first language. It highlights the various stages involved in language acquisition, such as the one-word and two-word stage, and examines how different levels of language are acquired, such as phonetics and semantics. Furthermore it explores the various theories that have been put forward to explain how and why children acquire language.

LNG2104 Analysing Discourse explores how language, both spoken and written, is structured above the level of the sentence. It considers how linguistic knowledge and social factors combine to create meaning in discourse between addressor and addressee.

LNG2105 Early English focuses on the language of the period 1100-1450. An exploration of the main features of Middle English and the language of important writers of the period such as Chaucer and Gower and Langland is complemented by a study of the main changes in sounds and grammar and vocabulary during the period of rapid linguistic change preceding Modern English.

LNG2106 Phonetics and Phonology builds on the work begun in the first year language modules. It gives you the opportunity to acquire theoretical and conceptual knowledge of both phonetics and phonology, as well as the practical skills needed to be able to produce, analyse and describe human speech sounds.

LNG2107 Modern English Structure and Usage builds on the grammar elements of year 1 modules, enabling you to gain confidence in the basic linguistic descriptions of noun groups, verb groups and clauses. This is vital preparation for analytical work at degree level in language and for intending teachers of English at any level.

LNG2108 Regional Varieties of English looks at the origins and relation of varieties of English in Britain and overseas. You will consider the major distinctive linguistic features of English around the world and offers the opportunity to undertake fieldwork and apply a range of investigative techniques.

LNG2109 Computers and English Language Research provides an opportunity to apply statistical methods to the analysis of linguistic style and to engage in debates about authorship and the use of IT in handling spoken and written language data.

LNG2110 Words discusses a number of issues which centre on the word as a meaningful unit (morphology), the nature of meaning and the different kinds of meaning (lexical semantics) and the ways in which these issues are represented in dictionaries (lexicology). It also includes discussion of English etymology and of the strange political-linguistic phenomenon that is Basic English.

LNG2114 Intercultural Communication will familiarise you with the major concepts and issues pertaining to intercultural communication. The aim is to improve your awareness of and sensitivity to cultural differences in interactions with people from different cultures. The module will help you develop effective intercultural communication competence and skills in addition to techniques for analysing and evaluating communication between cultures.

Year 3

LNG3100 Language and Education focuses on the roles played by language in facilitating - or obstructing - access to learning.

As well as examining educational language policy in the UK, the module focuses on spoken language use in classrooms - teacher talk and talk among learners - and on the teaching of literacy. You are introduced particularly to Vygotskyan learning theory and are expected to apply this in reflecting critically on your personal experience as a learner.

LNG3101 Language and Gender LNG3101 explores the links between cultural ideas about the sexes and the ways that women and men have been found to use language. It considers how 'femininity' and 'masculinity' are produced through conversation, how language is used to represent women and men, and how changes to 'sexist' language have come about in the past forty years. The module encourages an understanding of gender as something which is performed through - amongst other things - language, and offers students the opportunity to do their own original research project into the issues that interest them most.

LNG3102 Language and World Development examines the roles played by English and other languages in the contemporary global linguistic ecology. You are encouraged to problematise different definitions of the concept of development, as it is applied to many poor countries throughout the world, and to explore the language policies and planning which are associated with different societal aims, both socio-political and economic. We give particular attention to the role of language(s) in educational programmes and in access to literacy.

LNG3103 Communicating Sexuality provides an opportunity for study of and reflection on theoretical, conceptual and political issues of language use as they relate to the articulation of sexual identity, whether heterosexual, gay, lesbian or bisexual.

LNG3104 English in Contact. Language contact is one of the most dynamic and controversial fields in modern linguistic thought.

This module examines the effects of contact-induced language change upon English over the past millennium or more. It also looks at the effect that English has had on other languages, both those which are spoken in predominantly 'anglophone' (English language-dominant) areas and those which are used in non-anglophone areas.

Ancient and modern contact effects will be examined using a wide range of language material, and drawing attention, through English oriented examples, to some of the most disputed questions in the study of creolistics and mixed languages.

LNG3105 Bilingualism investigates bilingualism as a socially and culturally contextualised phenomenon, beginning by identifying processes involved in the acquisition of more than one language in the contexts of both the family and of a range of formal educational settings.

At the level of individual language use, we tackle theories surrounding conversational code-switching, whilst at the level of communities and societies we consider different models for the functional distribution of languages and attempts to 'plan' language.

LNG3106 Literary Stylistics enables primarily English Language students to gain confidence in talking about literary texts, and those students whose main focus is English Literature to focus on how language is used for stylistic purposes.

LNG3107 Linguistic Ethnography introduces you to the theory and method associated with linguistic ethnography through the study of significant research in this field. You will design and conduct a small-scale research project based on ethnographic microanalysis of communicative events within a community or institution.

LNG3108 TESOL introduces you to the principles and practice of good English language teaching. Issues dealt with during the module include the history of language teaching and learning, communicative language teaching, testing and placing students into the appropriate level, individual learner differences, grammatical terminology and the difference between overt and covert grammar teaching, materials evaluation and development and planning ESOL programmes and lessons.

LNG3109 Forensic Linguistics concerns the application of linguistic science in the legal process. The law is overwhelmingly a linguistic institution. Laws are coded in language; legal processes, such as court cases, take place overwhelmingly though language; legal contracts, such as those between us and our partners or employers, are overwhelmingly language documents. Thus, both the law and the language of the law permeate our lives. This module investigates the interface between language and the law.

LNG3110 Beyond English. What are the features of English which make it similar to other languages, how does it differ from other languages, and which features of English make it difficult for non-native speakers to learn? What features of other languages do English-speakers find difficult to learn?

This module looks at the science of typology, the structural classification of languages, and illustrates the range of phonological, morphological and syntactic features in the world's languages, ranging from French and German, via Chinese and Arabic, to Esperanto and Klingon.

LNG3111 Language and Identity explores a variety of past and present approaches to the study of language and identity. It will examine how individual, social and institutional identities are constructed and their intrinsic relation to language and other socio-cultural phenomena.

LNG3112 Language, Nation and Conflict in Europe examines the links between nationhood, identity, multi-lingualism and language use in a European context. It focuses on the politics of language use within the modern nation-state, and the status of surviving minority languages, as well as exploring the conflict that often exists between groups over their language rights.

LNG3113 Dissertation. The dissertation involves the completion of an 8,000-word independent (but supervised) study of a linguistic phenomenon of interest to you.