Beginning Phonology
Evan-Gary Cohen
In this course, we will examine the systematic regularities that motivate phonological processes, and learn how to draw generalizations, formulate rules, identify the interaction among the rules, and construct the representations triggered and affected by the processes. Throughout the course, we will provide and evaluate methods of phonological analysis, with reference to empirical data from various languages, including children’s languages.
We will study and evaluate two theories of Generative Phonology: The standard theory of the SPE developed during the 70s, which concentrates on rules, and the post-SPE theory which concentrates on representations and constraints.
Within these theoretical frameworks, we will relate to several phonological elements: segments and features, syllable structure, metrical structure (stress), and tonal systems.
Prerequisites: Introduction to Linguistics and Phonetics
Course requirements: Attendance of lectures and sections, reading (1-2 articles), assignments, and a final exam.