LD803 Phonology: Sound systems analysis
Unit Description
Pre-requisites
A unit in articulatory phonetics or equivalent (e.g., LD807 Language learning and linguistics for community participation)
Co-requisites
None.Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of this unit, the student will be able to:
Discuss foundational principles, goals and uses of phonology in relation to the diversity of the world’s languages.
Analyse phonetic data from any given language and describe phonological segments, syllable structure, suprasegmentals, morpheme alternation and sound systems using standard terminology and conventions.
Assess and critique phonological hypotheses using understanding of analytical principles, phonological universals and common phonological processes.
Unit Description
This unit introduces students to phonological theory and analysis. At each point an awareness of analytical principles, phonological universals and common phonological processes, such as varieties of assimilation, is built up. Students will apply their knowledge to the analysis of a wide range of language data. By the end of the unit students should have an understanding of the phonological principles and methodology that informs orthographic choices in a language community as well as the ability to form viable and checkable hypotheses.
Topics
- Analysis of the segmental and suprasegmental features of languages in terms of contrast, complementary distribution, free fluctuation
- Phonological processes
- Syllable structure
- Stress and tone
- Morpheme alternation
- Distinctive features
Assessment and Indicative Load
Assessment types include Supervised Exam, Portfolio, and Project. Indicative study load is 140 hours.
Unit offerings
Face to face: Semester 1, 2026 (Demand based)Please note
The Unit Offerings listed above are a guide only and the timetable for any year is the final authority. The College may vary offerings based on demand, regulatory requirements, continual improvement processes or other conditions.
This unit may be available in different modes of delivery i.e. online and face-to-face as listed above. The unit content will not differ between these modes of delivery. There will possibly be a difference in the schedule and/or the prescribed assessment tasks, however both will cover and assess the same content.