69318 - General Linguistics (D)

Learning outcomes

The course aims at introducing the basics properties of human language, its levels of analysis (phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics) and their interrelations. Both a synchronic and diachronic perspective will be adopted. The course will give an overview of the main theoretical models in linguistics and their epistemological foundations. Moreover, it will provide the students with some basic notions regarding the various subdisciplines of linguistics, such as typology (and the search for linguistic universals), sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, lexicology, computational linguistics. At the end of the course, the students will be able to analyze any text from the phonological, morphological, syntactic and semantic point of view.

Course contents

The course is introductory and it aims to provide students with the essential tools for the scientific study of human language and its manifestations: natural languages.

The various levels of linguistic analysis will be explained and exemplified using examples of Italian and other European and non-European languages.

First, the semiotic bases of language and the notions of natural language and linguistic ability will be addressed with the aim of illustrating what characterizes human language compared to other languages (animal and artificial), what languages are and how they can vary.

We will then reflect on the role of linguistics and the linguists in contemporary societies and cultures: what do linguists do and how.

The central part of the course will be dedicated to the various levels of linguistic analysis and related study methodologies: phonetics and phonology (including the description and use of the International Phonetic Alphabet); morphology and word construction; syntax; semantics and pragmatics.

Finally, we will focus on linguistic diversity and on the description of basic mechanisms of first and second language acquisition in children and adults, from a cognitive perspective.

To conclude, we will illustrate the main moments in the history of linguistic thought, with particular reference to modern linguistics ('800 and '900).

During the first week, students will receive and be presented with the detailed weekly breakdown of course topics.

Readings/Bibliography

Main Textbook (required for all students)

• Berruto, Gaetano & Massimo Cerruti (2022, 3rd ed.). La Linguistica. Un corso introduttivo. Torino: UTET.
  (The previous edition from 2017 is also accepted.)

Slides and Supplementary Materials

• The slides used in class will be uploaded weekly to the "Virtuale" platform. They are an integral part of the course syllabus and are required for both attending and non-attending students.
• The slides also contain links to supplementary resources, such as short explanatory videos.

Additional Required Reading for Non-Attending Students

• Masini, Francesca & Nicola Grandi (2017). Tutto ciò che hai sempre voluto sapere sul linguaggio e sulle lingue. Bologna: Caissa Italia.

Teaching methods

The course is held in person, in a lecture-based format supported by multimedia presentations provided by the teacher (PowerPoint slides). Students are encouraged to participate actively through questions and comments. Short in-class exercises are scheduled around one-third and two-thirds of the way through the course.

Theoretical lessons are complemented by practical examples and guided analyses of linguistic data.

Assessment methods

The exam is written, lasts one hour, and is worth a total of 31 points (31 equals "with honours"). It is structured as follows:

• 25 questions multiple choice or short-answer, aimed at assessing theoretical knowledge and the ability to apply concepts across the main areas of linguistic analysis:

  • 5 questions on phonetics and phonology

  • 5 on morphology

  • 5 on syntax

  • 5 on semantics

  • 5 on pragmatics

Each question is worth 1 point. Partial credit (fractions of points) may be awarded for partially correct answers.

• 4 open-ended questions, requiring more developed answers and analytical reasoning. Each open question is worth 1.5 points, for a total of 6 points.

The exam covers the entire course syllabus and is designed to evaluate:

• understanding and application of core concepts;

• analytical skills based on linguistic data;

• appropriate use of technical terminology.

Assessment criteria

In addition to accuracy, evaluation will consider clarity of expression, formal adequacy, and mastery of disciplinary terminology, especially in open-ended questions.

Grades will be assigned according to the following scale:

• Excellent (28–31): full and integrated understanding, accurate terminology, strong analytical skills.

• Good/Fair (24–27): overall solid knowledge, with minor uncertainties.

• Sufficient (18–23): limited or partial knowledge, basic analytical ability, imprecise terminology.

• Fail (<18): major theoretical and practical gaps, poor expression, inadequate linguistic knowledge.

 

Teaching tools

Lessons will be supported by projected slides, which complement and expand on the textbook content through diagrams, practical examples, and conceptual summaries.
Additional digital resources and selected online materials will also be used, including short videos, interactive exercises, and multimedia tools to support both individual and group learning.

Slides are stored here: https://virtuale.unibo.it/

Students with SLD or temporary or permanent disabilities.Any requests for adaptation must be made within 15 days of the exam date, by sending an email to the teacher and inserting in CC the email address disabili@unibo.it (in case of disability conditions) or dsa@unibo.it (for students with DSA).

Office hours

See the website of Marianna Marcella Bolognesi