Semesters

ENG200 Sociolinguistics

Course code: 
ENG200
Duration: 
1 semester
Credits (ECTS): 
15
Level of study: 
Specialization level (bachelor’s degree level)
Teaching semester: 
2025 Autumn
Assessment semester: 
2025 Autumn
Language of instruction: 
English
Required prerequisite courses
ENG141 Grammar and lexicology
ENG142 Literature, culture and society after 1900
ENG143 Phonetics and varieties of English
ENG144 Literature, Culture and Society before 1900
Required prerequisite knowledge

60 credits ENG141 Grammar and Lexicology, ENG143 Phonetics and Varieties of English + two of the following courses: ENG142, ENG144, or EXP100 (10 credits) and REL142 (5 credits); or courses equivalent to the above four courses.

Course content

This course provides an introductory knowledge of sociolinguistics, with emphasis on how language varieties function as identity markers for individuals and groups in society. The course focuses on the unique role of English as an international language in a multilingual world, and how this role shapes our understanding of the position of different international varieties of English. Students get the opportunity to learn about and familiarise themselves with varieties of English beyond the British and American standards. 

Learning outcome

In accordance with the National Qualification Framework the student will have following learning outcome after completing the course:

Learning outcome knowledge

The student:

  • has knowledge of how languages vary geographically and socially
  • has knowledge of how language choices and identities interact with meaning
  • has knowledge of how multilingualism and multilingual contexts interact with language use
  • has broad knowledge of central themes, terminologies, theories, issues and methods within sociolinguistics as a field of study and research
Learning outcome skills

The student:  

  • is capable of discussing key sociolinguistic terms and concepts including how different geographical and social factors interact with language use
  • is capable of identifying and explaining different types of (socio)linguistic variation
  • is capable of identifying and analysing linguistic change as a result of geographic and social factors
Learning outcome qualification

The student:

  • is capable of disseminating central theories, issues, and solutions both orally and in writing
  • is capable of using their knowledge and skills to reflect and think critically and independently
  • is capable of maintaining and developing their own linguistic, cultural, and research competence
  • is capable of understanding and adhering to the standards for production of academic texts and responsible usage of sources
Working and learning activities

Teaching takes the form of lectures, seminars and discussion groups, group work, and individual study.
 

Assessment requirements

Attendance requirements

Obligatory attendance for all organised or scheduled teaching (70 % minimum). Students are expected to participate actively in class. 
 

Work requirements:

  1. an oral assignment discussing a central topic in sociolinguistics (to be agreed with instructor)
  2. a first draft of a written assignment. The topic for this assignment must be discussed with and approved by the instructor. The final draft will be submitted as part of the final exam.
Evaluation system
Evaluation

The course will be evaluated in accordance with the University College’s routines for quality assurance.

Maximum number of students: 
15
Person in charge: 
Gloria Otchere
Used in other programs
  • English - specialization
  • Language and Literature - bachelor
Assessment FormGroupingDurationGrading scaleProportionCommentSupport MaterialsScope
Assignment
Individual
1 Semester
A-F, A is the best grade and E is the lowest passing grade
Adjusting oral examination
Individual
30 Minutes
A-F, A is the best grade and E is the lowest passing grade
100
Approval signature: 
Vibeke Jensen