LING3104

Formalism and Functionalism in Linguistics

Name: Formalism and Functionalism in Linguistics
Rating: 4.79 (14 reviews)

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

Requirements fulfilled

No source-backed degree requirement is attached to this course yet.

Official evaluation summary

4.79 / 5

Based on 14 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-07-23. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

Margaret Thomas
Fall 2026, Fall 2024, Fall 2022 · Official rating 4.86/5

Sections

Section 01
Fall 2026 · Margaret Thomas · Lyons Hall 208 TuTh 10:30AM-11:45AM · Offered