Modern Languages and Cultures
The information contained in this module specification was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change, either during the session because of unforeseen circumstances, or following review of the module at the end of the session. Queries about the module should be directed to the member of staff with responsibility for the module.
Title THE LINGUISTIC LANDSCAPE
Code MODL222
Coordinator Prof RJ Blackwood
Modern Languages and Cultures
Robert.Blackwood@liverpool.ac.uk
Year CATS Level Semester CATS Value
Session 2019-20 Level 5 FHEQ First Semester 15

Pre-requisites before taking this module (other modules and/or general educational/academic requirements):
 

Modules for which this module is a pre-requisite:
 

Co-requisite modules:
 

Teaching Schedule
  Lectures Seminars Tutorials Lab Practicals Fieldwork Placement Other TOTAL
Study Hours 12

 10

         22
Timetable (if known)              
Private Study 128
TOTAL HOURS 150

Assessment
EXAM Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
             
CONTINUOUS Duration Timing
(Semester)		 % of
final
mark		 Resit/resubmission
opportunity		 Penalty for late
submission		 Notes
Project essay There is a resit opportunity. Standard UoL penalty applies for late submission. This is an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  2,500 words    80       
Wiki There is a resit opportunity. This is not an anonymous assessment. Assessment Schedule (When) :Semester 1  1,000    20       

Aims

To introduce students to key theoretical and conceptual debates within Linguistic Landscape studies;

To develop students' ability to apply theoretical and conceptual debates to a close linguistic and semiotic analysis of the public space;

To enhance students' skills of critical analysis and independent thinking.

Learning Outcomes

(LO1) Show an understanding of semiotics, in order to be able to ‘read’ languages as they appear in the public space as well as analyse signs in urban and rural environments

(LO2) Students will be able to create their own wiki, analysing a sign/signs

(LO3) Students will be able to plan, undertake and submit their own original research project into an aspect of the linguistic landscape, as identified by the student, with guidance from the tutors

(S1) Critical thinking and problem solving - Critical analysis

(S2) Working in groups and teams - Group action planning

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Academic writing (inc. referencing skills)

Teaching and Learning Strategies

Teaching Method 1 - Lecture
Description: The lecture will introduce students to theories, concepts, trends, and applications around the Linguistic Landscape.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Teaching Method 2 - Seminar
Description: The seminar will invite students to discuss texts that have been proposed, and present their Wikis to the rest of the class.
Attendance Recorded: Yes

Self-Directed Learning Description: Students will spend much of their independent study time reading and preparing for their extended essay on the Linguistic Landscape. This essay will require some primary research, and therefore time will be devoted to planning for the fieldwork, ensuring ethical compliance (where appropriate), and informing themselves on others’ approaches to Linguistic Landscape research.

Syllabus
 

Topics covered during the module may include:   
 
What is a language?    
Introduction to semiotics    
Language policy    
The history of the Linguistic Landscape    
Research methods I    
Introduction to multilingualism    
Research methods II    
(Ben Rafael et al: top-down); How to create a wiki    
Case study I: Italy    
Case study II: France

Recommended Texts
Reading lists are managed at readinglists.liverpool.ac.uk. Click here to access the reading lists for this module.