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Discourse & Pragmatics (LING30004)

Undergraduate level 3Points: 12.5Not available in 2026

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Overview

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This subject involves the study of language from pragmatic and discourse analytic perspectives. It will include topics such as: the collection and transcription of spoken language data, non-verbal communication, speech act theory, conversational implicature, conversation analysis and other approaches to discourse analysis such as ethnographical approaches, critical discourse analysis, and discourse and grammar. In addition, specific topics in discourse analysis and pragmatics will be covered such as narrative, identity positioning and stance, and discourse and technology. Students will learn how to design a small research project in discourse analysis and will have many opportunities to study samples of real-life language use from different perspectives.

Intended learning outcomes

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Have an understanding of the main linguistic approaches to the study of Discourse and Pragmatics
  • Confidently deploy discipline specific research and analysis in Discourse and Pragmatics using primary and secondary sources and empirical data collected by students with a strong sense of research ethics and intellectual integrity
  • Draw on and critically evaluate theoretical approaches to the fields
  • Position themselves within theoretical perspectives in Discourse Analysis and Pragmatic theory
  • Proficiently employ learning and research technologies as well as field-specific technologies in transcription
  • Attain advanced abilities in written and verbal argumentation in Discourse and Pragmatics
  • Consolidate their understanding of social and cultural diversity in the university and wider community

Generic skills

On completion of this subject, students should be able to:

  • Develop research skills through collecting data and applying an analytic perspective
  • Integrate theory and data in a written account

Last updated: 11 December 2025