The course aims to introduce and to acquaint students with current concerns in the study of linguistics. Students will be encouraged to participate in discussion sessions concerning various topics of linguistics such as pragmatics, syntax, semantics, etc. By the end of the course students should be familiar with a range of topics in contemporary linguistics. The course should be seen as a preparatory step for students to explore their interests in the field of linguistic studies.

1. Enable a better understanding of the English language (its structure, pronunciation, grammar, word formation, meaning, and usage) and thus help the students be more proficient in their use of English. 2. Provide a good background for students interested in taking further linguistics courses, courses in Teaching English as Foreign Language, communication studies, translation, or other related courses. 3. Give the students’ an opportunity to discover more about the workings of the human mind and the ways in which human thought and language interact. 4. Develop the students’ analytical skills and encourage precision and accuracy in the study of speech and writing.

Textbook: Language Files, twelfth ed., the Ohio State Univ.