Admission requirements
None
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 first course of the two-semester introduction to formal semantics. Topics of the first semester include:
Classification of meanings,
Lexical semantics,
Sentence meanings as truth-conditions,
Principle of compositionality, and
Propositional and predicate logic.
Course objectives
To learn the basic notions of formal semantics
To acquire the basic skills to analyze the meanings of simple declarative sentences
To be able to read and write propositional and predicate logical formulae.
Timetable
Mode of instruction
- Lecture
Course Load
Total course load 5EC x 28 hours = 140 hours
Lectures: 26 hours
Study of compulsory literature and assignments: 62 hours
Preparation for the exam: 52 hours
Assessment method
Assessment
The final mark for the course is established by the weighted average of the following components:
- Written examination with open questions (75%)
- Class Participation and successful submission of assignments (25%)
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