This module introduces students to the various ways in which the term “discourse” is applied to the study of language. Theories and methods that are covered include: pragmatics and speech act theory, theories of (im)politeness, conversation analysis, interactional sociolinguistics, and critical discourse analysis. Discourse builds on topics covered in year one and provides core theoretical content that is further developed in many final year modules.  

• evaluate theoretical approaches to pragmatics, discourse analysis and social interaction (LO1) 

• select and analyse examples of talk and text illustrative of the relevant frameworks (LO2) 

• critically evaluate the role of language in social interaction and/or structures of power (LO3) 

The module will be delivered through a mix of large group and small group sessions, including, where relevant, asynchronous materials such as lecture recordings.

In addition to the skills formally assessed in this module, you will also practice and develop the ability to:​

1. Construct and explain complex and specialised arguments

2. Collect, transcribe and analyse audio and textual data in relation to relevant theoretical frameworks 

3. Critically/ideologically interpret discourse in a range of contexts

4. Use a range of employability skills 

The module has two assessments:

• Coursework - Essay (1600 words, 50%, LO1-2)
• Take-home Exam (50%, LO1-3).

THE OPPORTUNITY FOR REASSESSMENT IN THIS MODULE:

• Every resit opportunity is available in the same format as the original assessment.

Opportunities for re-assessment are only permitted provided you have not failed more credit than in the resit rule adopted by your programme.  If the amount of credit you have failed is more than permitted by the relevant resit rule, you may be permitted to repeat study if you are within the threshold set for the Repeat rule adopted by your programme.  You will be notified of your eligibility to resit/repeat any modules after the Examining Board in the Summer period.

The module will include a selection of most of the following topics: 

• Pragmatics: forms and functions of language in context; speech act theory, direct and indirect meaning. 
• Politeness: theories of politeness and impoliteness; co-operation in discourse. 
• Social Interaction: ethnomethodology and conversation analysis; orderliness in discourse; communication ritual and small talk. Identity construction in talk and interaction. 
• Critical Perspectives on language as social practice: critical discourse analysis; language, ideology and the constitution of power and asymmetry; issues of knowledge, access and social control.