LING 1201 General Linguistics
This course is an introduction to the scientific study of language. Students learn to " think like a linguist" through hands-on analysis of sounds, structures, and meanings from a variety of languages. We use these tools to study some of the deep similarities and structured differences across languages, and practice turning a linguistic perspective on topics in popular discourse. Although required for Linguistics majors and minors, the course is also designed to complement studies in a variety of fields. Offered each Fall semester. No prerequisites. (Formerly LING3101)
Course overview
- Department
- Linguistics
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Both
- Offered
- Every Fall
Catalog details
- Satisfies core
- Social Science
Requirements fulfilled
- Psychology B.S. (Class of 2027 and Before): Science Corequisites — four of the following courses (12 or more credits) (Class of 2027 and Before)
- Psychology B.S.: Science Corequisites — four of the following courses (12 or more credits) (Class of 2028 and After)
- University Core: Social Science (All undergraduates)
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 4.25 / 5 · Very Good
- Instructor rating
- 4.54 / 5 · Excellent
- Terms evaluated
- 2
| Term | Instructor | Course overall | Instructor overall | Well organized | Clear learning objectives | Intellectually challenging | Helpful assignments | Applicable beyond course | Attendance necessary | Weekly effort | Responses |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring 2026 | Christopher Geissler | 4.3 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.6 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.2 | 3.8 | 1–3 hrs/week | 31 of 35 |
| Fall 2025 | Christopher Geissler | 4.2 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.3 | 1–3 hrs/week | 30 of 37 |