Admission requirements
Successful completion of Semantics 1
Description
There are systematic patterns in how sentences in natural language convey various meanings. Formal Semantics is a theoretical framework that enables us to empirically investigate principles governing such systematic patterns, employing tools made available by linguistics, logic and cognitive science.
This course is the second course of the two-semester introduction to formal semantics. Topics of the second semester include:
Types,
Functional application as meaning composition,
Quantification,
Generalized Quantifiers,
Presupposition Projection,
Intensionality, and
Interrogative clauses.
Semantic research using experimental methodology will also be discussed. This will be done in the form of several group presentations on recent papers addressing semantic issues employing psycholinguistic methodology.
Course objectives
To acquire the basic skills to analyze the meanings of structurally complex sentences in terms of its sub-sentential meaning composition.
To be able to read and critically review current literature in formal semantics.
To be able to apply the knowledge of formal semantics to independent research projects.
Timetable
Mode of instruction
- Lecture
Course Load
Total course load 5EC x 28 hours = 140 hours
Lectures: 26 hours
Study of compulsory literature: 26 hours
Assignments: 26 hours
Preparation for the presentation: 13 hours
Preparation for the exam: 49 hours
Assessment method
Assessment
The final mark for the course is established by the weighted average of the following components:
1. Written examination with open questions (70%)
2. Class Participation and successful submission of assignments (20%)
3. Group presentation of one of the assigned readings (10%)
The final mark for the course is established by determining the weighted average.
Resit
Resit of the written examination will take place.
Exam review
The model solutions of the exam will be uploaded on Blackboard together with the publication of the exam results at the latest.
Blackboard
Blackboard will be used for:
Various class announcements
Uploading class handouts, slides and other materials
Submitting assignments
Reading list
The reading list will be provided on Blackboard.
Registration
Enrolment through uSis is mandatory.
General information about uSis is available in English and Dutch
Contact
Education Administration Office van Wijkplaats: osz-oa-wijkplaats@hum.leidenuniv.nl
Coordinator of Studies: Else van Dijk