English and drama
Language Myths
Module code: Q1901
Level 4
15 credits in autumn semester
Teaching method: Seminar, Workshop
Assessment modes: Portfolio, Report
On this module, you’ll identify, and debunk, some popular myths about language. This gives us a way into folk linguistics – the study of what non-academics think about language.
We’ll reflect on what fake beliefs tell us about how people conceptualise language, and language in relation to society and culture. Investigating and fact-checking myths allows you to explore different areas of linguistics and develop your critical skills.
We’ll cover topical myths, which could include:
- ‘I don’t have an accent’
- ‘women talk more than men’
- ‘children learn best with just one language’
- ‘Gen Z can’t use punctuation’
- ‘the original meaning of a word is the true meaning’.
Through this module, you’ll develop skills in communicating linguistics findings and facts to non-expert audiences.
Module learning outcomes
- Take a critical approach to investigating popular beliefs about language
- Search out and synthesise information in previous research
- Develop communication for a specified audience showing skills in audience design, editing, and presentation
- Build reflexive skills through evaluating the process of investigating and communicating language myths.