LG465-7-SP: DEVELOPMENTAL LANGUAGE DISORDERS
Year: 2012/13
Department: Language and Linguistics
Essex credit: 15
ECTS credit: 7.5
Available to Study Abroad / Exchange Students: No
| Module is taught during the following terms |
| Autumn |  | Spring |  | Summer | |
Module Description
The module consists of weekly two-hour lectures, and provides an up-to-date introduction to different kinds of developmental language disorders focussing on impairments of levels of the language system, including phonology, grammar (syntax and morphology), semantics and pragmatics. We will focus on studies on Specific Language Impairment, and make reference to other conditions such as Williams Syndrome, Down's Syndrome, Autistic Spectrum Disorders and Hearing Impairment occur in children and affect the normal acquisition of language. We will consider theoretical explanatory approaches to understanding language disorder, and consider assessments of language disorders as well as approaches to intervention to remediate language disorders.
Learning Outcomes
The module has three major aims:
(i) to provide an overview of studies on developmental language disorders,
(ii) to enable students to understand current theoretical positions in this area,
(iii) to help students understand the clinical implications of developmental language disorders.
Learning & Teaching Methods
This module consists of 10 weekly 2-hour lectures. The lectures will be kept reasonably informal, with opportunities for interaction and participation by students. Students are expected to attend regularly, to read relevant texts in advance of a class as required, and to participate actively in class discussions. Further reading (or re-reading of core texts) will be necessary in order to consolidate the understanding of the topics covered in class.
Assessment
100 per cent Coursework Mark
Other details:
Assessment
100 percent Course Work.
Students must attend at least 8 of the 10 lectures.
Deadline: Monday 22th April 2013 (first day of Summer term).
Exam Duration and Period
Other information
Assessment for this module is based on three components:
(i) an oral presentation of an original research article related to one of the topics covered in class (40% of final mark).
(ii) a 2,000-word summary essay of an original research article related to one of the topics covered in class (40% of final mark).
(iii) two small homework assignments during term (20% of final mark).
Bibliography
- Students are strongly recommended to read the following introduction:
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Shula Chiat (2000): Understanding Children with Language Problems. Cambridge University Press.
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A detailed reading list will be made available at the beginning of term.