Module manager: Elliot Holmes
Email: e.j.holmes@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 2 (Jan to Jun) View Timetable
Year running 2025/26
| MODL1060 | Language: Structure and Sound |
This module is approved as a discovery module
Phonetics is the scientific study of how speech is produced and perceived. In this module, students learn how to describe speech sounds in terms of their articulatory and acoustic characteristics. They gain practical skills in the recognition and description of speech sounds as found in the world’s spoken languages, and learn how to transcribe them using the International Phonetic Alphabet. They also undertake a small research project involving acoustic analysis. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.
This module aims to:
(1) introduce students to core concepts of articulatory and acoustic phonetics, guided by the system of speech sound description that underlies the International Phonetic Alphabet
(2) develop students’ practical skills in producing, perceiving and transcribing speech sounds, and quantifying some of their acoustic properties
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:
(1) apply a detailed understanding of how the human vocal tract works when analysing speech sounds
(2) apply basic concepts of acoustic phonetics when undertaking phonetic research
(3) accurately produce, recognise and transcribe speech sounds from across the world’s languages with reference to the International Phonetic Alphabet
Skills Learning Outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
(4) Conduct research involving the recording and quantitative analysis of real-world data using appropriate digital tools
(5) Communicate analytical findings effectively
Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module
| Delivery type | Number | Length hours | Student hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lecture | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Seminar | 10 | 1 | 10 |
| Private study hours | 180 | ||
| Total Contact hours | 20 | ||
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) | 200 | ||
Lecture content is accompanied by self-study materials that encourage students to check their understanding of core concepts and command of terminology throughout the module. Seminar activities and supplementary materials are designed to develop students’ skills in the areas of sound production and recognition (as assessed in the OTLA) and acoustic analysis (as assessed in the coursework task). Students are given feedback and individual help during seminars where relevant, and have the opportunity to complete a formative assignment in preparation for the coursework task.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Analysis report | 60 |
| Coursework | OTLA - Practical exam | 40 |
| Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) | 100 | |
Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 02/05/2025
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team