Fundamental Aspects of Language Meaning

Synopsis

TSL 503 Fundamental Aspects of Language Meaning provides students with an overview of the study of semantics and pragmatics. The core theories and concepts are examined critically, with emphasis on those aspects of meaning of direct relevance to language learning. The course will also examine current trends in research in selected areas of semantics and pragmatics, and consider their implications for language learning and teaching.

Level: 5
Credit Units: 5
Presentation Pattern: EVERY JULY
E-Learning: BLENDED - Learning is done MAINLY online using interactive study materials in Canvas. Students receive guidance and support from online instructors via discussion forums and emails. This is supplemented with SOME face-to-face sessions. If the course has an exam component, this will be administered on-campus.

Topics

Abstract and contextual meaning
Sentence, utterance and speaker meaning
The nature of reference and co-reference
Deixis and distance
Entailment
Presupposition
Lexical semantics
Pragmatics and indirectness
Speech Act
Speech Event
The Cooperative Principle
Conventional and conversational implicatures

Learning Outcome

Differentiate between different aspects of meaning
Discuss the connection between context and meaning
Critique key semantic and pragmatic concepts
Evaluate the explanatory value of semantic and pragmatic theories and concepts to their understanding of human communication
Assess the relevance of semantic and pragmatic theories and concepts to their understanding of language learning
Appraise the applicability of semantic and pragmatic theories and concepts to language teaching

Part-time Programmes / CET Courses

Singapore University of Social Sciences

Fundamental Aspects of Language Meaning