PLMPP-Phonetics and Phonology

Module Provider: Clinical Language Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:7
Terms in which taught: Autumn term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2019/0

Email: m.sokolovic@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This module introduces students to the principles of phonetics and phonology and the speech sound system of English.

Aims:
The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the principles of phonetics and phonology. In terms of phonetics, students will be introduced to the articulation, acoustics, perception and transcription of speech sounds. In terms of phonology, students will understand the patterning of speech sounds in English, connected speech processes and the distinction between the segmental and suprasegmental features of English speech.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the students will be able to: 

• Understand the difference between phonetic and phonological systems 

• Have a basic working knowledge of the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) transcription system including cardinal vowels 

• Have a basic working knowledge of an English phonemic transcription system 

• Understand suprasegmental features of speech, including stress and tone 

Additional outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that the students will be able to:

• Describe the acoustic properties of speech sounds, identify different sounds on a spectrogram and carry out acoustic phonetic analysis

• Use phonotactic knowledge to propose likely words/phrases, considering potential influences of connected speech processes (assimilation, coalescence, elision, liaison)

• Use computer software for the acoustic analysis of speech (Praat).

Outline content:
Students will be introduced to the concepts of phonetics and phonology, and how the two differ. Students will be trained as to when it is appropriate to use either phonetic or phonological transcriptions. Students will also be introduced to the acoustic properties of speech sounds and how spectrograms can be generated and interpreted. In addition to practical sessions on phonetic and phonological transcription, students will become familiar with connected speech processes such as assimilation, coalescence, elision, liaison, and shown how to mark suprasegmental features of speech.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:
There will be 23 hours of teaching delivered as lectures and tutorials.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Class test: short-answer questions on phonetics and phonology fundamental concepts and several transcriptions. 

Formative assessment methods:
Mock test in Autumn term

Penalties for late submission:
Penalties for late submission on this module are in accordance with the University policy. Please refer to page 5 of the Postgraduate Guide to Assessment for further information: http://www.reading.ac.uk/internal/exams/student/exa-guidePG.aspx

Assessment requirements for a pass:

50%

Reassessment arrangements:
Reassessment by September.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 10 April 2019