Module Catalogue 2025/26

Pre Requisite Comment

Students must have taken and passed SML1019 – or an equivalent module – in any of the previous three years. The prerequisite is waived for students on the QT19 and Q1R4 degree programmes.
Module is open to other students, provided:
(i) Good knowledge of Spanish (including ability to read academic articles in Spanish and ability to pronounce Spanish words correctly)
(ii) Having passed the Stage 1 introductory linguistic modules in SELLL (e.g. SEL1027 and SEL1028 or the equivalent)"

Co Requisite Comment

Can be taken with either Level D language module but not both simultaneously.

Aims

To explore how Spanish grew out of proto-Romance (late spoken Latin), by considering (i) the sound changes that have affected the vocabulary and (ii) the associated restructuring of the language’s morphology. A comparative perspective will be adopted, enabling students to see how other Romance languages, such as French, Catalan or Italian, have taken different historical trajectories, having started from the same baseline.

Outline Of Syllabus

Topics include:
1.       Changes affecting consonants
2.       Changes affecting vowels
3.       Creation of the modern Spanish noun system
4.       Development of “radical changing verbs”
5.       Where the modern pronouns come from
6.       Development of verb tenses
7.       Changes in inflectional morphology
8.       Syntactic changes

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

A broad knowledge of the main developments in historical Spanish linguistics. A more detailed knowledge of specific aspects of the history of Spanish and Romance, particularly phonology and morphology. A more detailed understanding of etymology.

Intended Skill Outcomes

- Development of ability to think critically about language
- Development of general logic and analytical capabilities
- Ability to selectively obtain information from the Internet
- Ability to use library resources
- Enhancement of practical command of a foreign language

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Lectures and small group teaching will provide hands-on learning support to deliver core technical and conceptual elements of the syllabus. Independent study will develop research skills, data retrieval and analysis, and organizational capabilities.

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

The written exams will test students’ practical ability to analyse and solve problems while under time pressure. They will also test their ability to present an argument in a clear and rational way.

General Notes

N/A