LING 3104 Formalism and Functionalism in Linguistics
Analysis of two competing orientations in linguistic theory since 1900: formalism (emphasizing systematicity, autonomy, abstraction: American structuralism, varieties of generativism); versus functionalism (prioritizing the role communication imposes on language: Prague School, cognitive linguistics). Extensions into applied linguistics. Readings, lectures, discussion.
Course overview
- Department
- Linguistics
- School
- MCAS
- Credits
- 3
- Level
- Both
- Offered
- Biannually in the Fall
Catalog details
Requirements fulfilled
Course evaluations
- Course rating
- 4.79 / 5 · Excellent
- Instructor rating
- 4.86 / 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2024 | Margaret Thomas | 4.9 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.9 | 4–6 hrs/week | 8 of 10 |
| Fall 2022 | Margaret Thomas | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.8 | 4.7 | 4.7 | 4.8 | 4–6 hrs/week | 6 of 8 |