Module manager: Dr Valentina Brunetto
Email: V.Brunetto@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running 2026/27
| LING2340 | Syntax |
This module is not approved as a discovery module
How is syntax represented in the brain and during child language development, and what happens when syntactic competence is impaired from a stroke or brain injury? This module develops advanced research and analytical skills in morphology, syntax and their interface (morphosyntax). Lectures introduce key terms and concepts in generative syntactic theory. Then we explore how theoretical predictions can be tested in experimental studies in language acquisition, language processing, or language impairments. 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.
The aim of this module is to enable learners to understand advanced concepts in syntax and to explore how these can be applied in experimental studies. This is achieved by alternating lectures that introduce key theoretical proposals in syntax with interactive seminars that allow evaluation of published studies on language processing, impairment, and child language development. By focusing on the methods and data analysis of these experiments, students develop a critical awareness of the way different theoretical viewpoints and predictions can be tested experimentally.
On successful completion of the module students will be able to:
1. Apply key terms and concepts to investigate empirical language data
2. Critically evaluate specific approaches to the study of syntax, relating empirical evidence to theoretical debates
3. Collate and analyse data
4. Interpret and summarise complex ideas
5. Employ digital skills to present research findings to a specialist audience
On completion of this module, students should be able to:
• Analyse constituent structure and morphosyntactic phenomena to an advanced level.
• Analyse and interpret results from experimental studies as evidence for linguistic theory.
• Design and present a poster describing a published experimental study.
| 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 | ||
Students will receive formative feedback through engagement with dedicated group activities in class, including critical reading discussions and review of exercises. They will practice their analysis skills and reflect on their learning through independent self-study exercises. Progress will also be monitored in special sessions designed to develop skills in working with language data and designing posters.
| Assessment type | Notes | % of formal assessment |
|---|---|---|
| Coursework | Project | 50 |
| Coursework | Poster Presentation | 50 |
| 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: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team