SPE1058 : Linguistics I
SPE1058 : Linguistics I
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Elaine Lopez
- Owning School: Education, Communication & Language Sci
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 1 Credit Value: | 5 |
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 5 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SPE1050 | Anatomy & Physiology for Speech and Language |
| SPE1051 | Research Methods in Practice I |
| SPE1053 | UG Phonetics and Phonology I: Fundamentals |
| SPE1054 | Introduction to Speech and Language Pathology |
| SPE1055 | Clinical and Professional Education I |
Co Requisite Comment
All stage 1 modules on either the BSc Speech and Language Therapy or Master of Speech and Language Sciences programmes.
Aims
This introductory linguistics module considers theoretical concepts in linguistics, exploring morphology, lexis, syntax and semantics. Current psycholinguistic frameworks of lexical organisation, the storage and processing of morphologically complex forms and models of the comprehension and expression of language are introduced. Regional, social, gender and age-related variation in language structures are considered. The module provides a foundation for the linguistic analysis of clinical data in stage 2.
In relation to HCPC Standards of Proficiency, module addresses aspects of the following standards (in some cases when combined with other modules):
7.3 understand the characteristics and consequences of verbal and non-verbal communication and recognise how these can be affected by difference of any kind, including, but not limited to, protected characteristics, intersectional experiences and cultural differences
12.7 understand linguistics and phonetics, psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics and all levels of typical processing and the differences for individuals whose home language is not English
Outline Of Syllabus
Semester 1 will cover morphology lexis, syntax and semantics. Semester 2 will cover sentential semantics and psycholinguistic models of the comprehension and expression of language.
In relation to the RCSLT curriculum guidelines, this modules covers aspects related to 4.4.1 general linguistics and clinical applications, sociolinguistics and psycholinguistics.
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
1. Describe word, phrase, clause and sentence structure in English, bearing in mind natural variations
2. Explain the concepts and components of semantics
3. Explain current psycholinguistic models of sentence production and comprehension
Intended Skill Outcomes
1. Describe and analyse English sentences in terms of their word, syntactic and thematic structure
2. Identify natural variations and differences in lexical and grammatical phenomena
3. Identify and analyse common speech and language errors
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | 1 hour per week each semester |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 25:00 | 25:00 | Preparation for Exam |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | Preparation for lecture sessions |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Workshops | 6 | 1:00 | 6:00 | 3 sessions each semester to consolidate learning |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 25:00 | 25:00 | N/A |
| Total | 100:00 |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Introductory materials will be provided on Canvas prior to the lectures. Interactive lectures (with interspersed practical activities) will introduce key concepts. Workshops will then allow students to work through practical examples for consolidation of their knowledge.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Exams
| Description | Length | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Digital Examination | 90 | 2 | A | 100 | Inspera Exam (90 minutes) - Linguistics |
Formative Assessments
Formative Assessment is an assessment which develops your skills in being assessed, allows for you to receive feedback, and prepares you for being assessed. However, it does not count to your final mark.
| Description | Semester | When Set | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| PC Examination | 1 | A | 45 Minute Canvas Quiz, focused on semester 1 content. Quiz in same format as summative assessment. |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The exam assesses both conceptual understanding, and ability to conduct syntactic and semantic analysis of speech. Exam consists of mixture of multiple choice, short answer and longer answers.
Prior to the exam, students will have an opportunity to practise, with online quizzes and practical examples within the seminars. There will be a formative Canvas quiz in semester 1, focusing on semester 1 content.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SPE1058's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- SPE1058's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.