This course is an introduction to historical linguistics, the study of how languages change over time. Topics include: types of language change (sound change, analogy, borrowing, etc.); linguistic reconstruction; the origins of modern languages.

Trask's Historical Linguistics, 2nd Edition. 2007. Hodder Education.

Exams (70%). There will be one mid-term and one final, each worth 35% of your total grade. The exams are mostly non-cumulative. The mid-term is set for Thurs., Oct. 13th, the last Thurs. before Fall Break. The final is set for Mon., Dec. 12th, at 2PM, in this classroom. There will be no make-up exams. If you absolutely cannot make it to an exam, you must let me know in advance.

Assignments (15%). Assignments will teach you how to do historical linguistics more than anything else. If you want to do well in this course, do the homework assignments! In general, homework will be assigned every Thursday, and will be due the following Thursday at the beginning of class. Assignments must be typed. I will accept no late assignments, and no electronic submissions. You may work together, as long as you (a) write up the assignment you turn in on your own; and (b) write the name(s) of whomever you worked with at the top of the page below yours.

Presentation/paper (10%). You will each give a 20-minute presentation on a topic of your choice, and write a short (at least five double-spaced pages), very focused, paper on it, to be turned in by the last day of class. You should choose and email me your topic by the first week of November. I am happy to help you choose a topic, either via email or during office hours. Early paper submissions are welcome.

Participation (5%). Remember: I can see you! Come to class and participate, and you will get the full five points.

http://dstmte.net/lgcs101

Email is the best way to contact me:
meredith.landman -at- gmail.com or

Thursdays from 5-6PM, or by apt., in edms-203.

Be aware of regulations on academic honesty. Ask me when in doubt. The following are considered to be cheating: copying or sharing all or part of a homework assignment; copying answers from books; copying or sharing information during an exam.