78705 - English Linguistics 2 (LM)

Learning outcomes

The global aim of this course is to provide students with an expert knowledge on the use of language and other semiotic systems in contemporary discourse. Including lectures and language classes, the course covers a number of aspects of English linguistics in order to develop a critical understanding of the relationship between discourse and society and to strengthen English language proficiency. Students will be able to identify and describe metalinguistic factors and semiotic resources at play in discourse as they will be provided with theoretical knowledge related to one or more of the following areas of English linguistics: phonology, morphology, syntax, lexicology, semantics, pragmatics, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, stylistics, corpus linguistics, multimodality and social semiotics. Theories and concepts will be applied to samples of authentic texts (written and/ or spoken, belonging to different registers), including the use of language and multimodal corpora as sources of examples. Language classes aim to improve students’ linguistic competence; over the two-year period, students’ knowledge of English should reach level C2 according to the European framework in all four abilities. These classes will work in connection with the lectures to improve students’ writing skills in particular.

Course contents

Lectures

Lectures (module 1, 30 hours, held by Dr. Ferrari) aim at acquiring the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to master the relationship between language, cognition and emotion within persuasive communication. Fostering awareness of such features within persuasion can help understand the complexities that such a delicate and multilevel interface can present even in our everyday communications.

More specifically, module 1 will develop the tools offered by English Linguistics in synergy with neighboring fields in relation to the following main themes:

1. Language & thought: conceptual metaphor
2. Language & emotion: communication
3. Language and behavior: persuasion

In conclusion, the theme of persuasion will be also explored with respect to inter and intra-personal power features (sustainable persuasion, charisma).

The 2nd module (30 hours, held by Professor Valeria Reggi) focuses on discourse as a social phenomenon. It offers the tools for a critical reading of the discourse of traditional media and social media, with particular attention to multimodal representation.

The module provides a theoretical overview of qualitative discourse analysis of texts and visual material in order to foreground implied subtexts and ideological implications.

The overall aim of the module is to develop students’ awareness of persuasion and manipulation techniques, through hands-on activities of text analysis and discussion.

The second module will conclude with a final focus on multimodality.

 

Language classes

Through the language classes, students will be able to put into practice analysis of language with reference to the topics of modules 1 and 2 (from persuasion to manipulation and propaganda).

The classes aim to consolidate and expand students' language skills, with particular emphasis placed on critical reading and writing skills.

 

Readings/Bibliography

Modulo 1

Essential readings

1. George, Lakoff (1993). “The Contemporary Theory of Metaphor.” In Metaphor and Thought, edited by Andrew Ortony, 202–51. 2nd ed. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
   
2. Lakoff, George and Mark Johnson. (1980) 2003. Metaphors We Live by. Chicago, IL: The University of Chicago Press. Pp. 1-34, 157.
3. Ferrari, Federica (2018). Metaphor and Persuasion in Strategic Communication: Sustainable Perspectives. New York: Routledge. pp. 1-120; 233-239 - Introduction, Chapter 1, Chapter 2, Chapter 3, Chapter 8.
4. Watzlawick, Paul, Janet Beavin Bavelas and Don D. Jackson. 1967. Pragmatics of Human Communication. A Study of Interactional Patterns, Pathologies, and Paradoxes. New York: Norton. pp. 1-98.

Modulo 2

Essential readings

1. Kress, G. & van Leeuwen, T. (2006). Reading Images. The Grammar of Visual Design. New York and London: Routledge (Introduction, chapters 1, 2, 4 and 6)

1. Hall, S., Evans, J., & Nixon, S. (Eds.). (2013). Representation: Cultural Representations and Signifying Practices. London: SAGE Publications, Ltd. (chapters 1 and 4)
2. Combei, R. & Reggi, V. (2023) Appraisal, Sentiment and Emotion Analysis in Political Discourse. A Multimodal, Multi-method Approach. New York and London: Routledge (chapter 7)
3. Material on Virtuale.

 

Teaching methods

Lectures conducted in English. The active participation of the students is fundamental for reaching the goals of this course.

Assessment methods

As for the first module, the exam consists of an oral examination on course content and bibliographic materials. More information will be given during the course.

As for the second module the students are expected to hand in an essay (analysis of a text) following the guidelines that will be provided during the course.

As for the language classes the students are expected to hand in an essay following the guidelines that will be provided during the course. Language classes requirements may be subject to change. 

Teaching tools

Course materials will be made available on the virtual learning platform virtuale.unibo.it.

Office hours

See the website of Federica Ferrari

See the website of Valeria Reggi