Course overview and goals
In Ling 200, we investigate the phonology -- the patterning of speech sounds -- of many different languages. Through class discussion and frequent exercises and problem sets, we work to develop a general theory of phonology that can account for both the similarities and the differences in sound patterns across the languages of the world.
See the schedule of topics for more details.
Textbook?
There is no textbook for this course. Most days, students prepare for class by working through phonological data sets that will form the basis of that day's discussion. Class discussion is followed up by notes and handouts posted to this web site. Occasionally, longer readings are also distributed online or in class.
Prerequisite
Ling 101 (Introduction to Language) or permission of instructor.Frequently asked questions about phonology at UNC
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What is the difference between Ling 200 and Ling 523?
Ling 200 (Phonology) is the undergraduate-oriented phonology course that is taken by most linguistics majors and minors.
Ling 523 (Phonological Theory I) is a graduate-level introduction to phonological theory. As a graduate-level course, it places more emphasis on reading primary research literature in phonology. Undergraduates who wish to take Ling 523 in place of Ling 200 should please contact the instructor of Ling 523 (Jen Smith for Spring 2012) to request permission. Please note that Ling 520 (Linguistic Phonetics) is a prerequisite for Ling 523.
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Can I take more phonology after Ling 200?
Students who successfully complete Ling 200 (or Ling 523) and want to explore theoretical phonology in more depth are welcome to consider Ling 524 (Phonological Theory II), a graduate-level phonology seminar, usually offered in the fall. Ling 520 (Linguistic Phonetics) is another good choice for the phonologically inclined.