Phonological Theory

This course introduces students to a range of important topics in (generative) phonological theory and to phonological data analysis. On the theoretical side, we cover the following topics:

• Basics of phonological theory: contrast, phonemes, allophones, alternations
• Feature theory
• Derivations, underlying representations, rules
• Process interaction and rule ordering
• Suprasegmental phonology: syllable structure, stress, tone
• Advanced feature theory: feature geometry, unary features
• Explanation in phonology

Throughout the course, there is a strong emphasis on building data analysis and problem solving skills.

This course is also offered for MSc students (as LASC11148). It is suitable for postgraduate students who have had some previous exposure to phonology.

Following this course, students will be able to progress to advanced study of phonological theory. In ²⁰¹⁹⁄₂₀₂₀, we are offering LASC10046 Historical Phonology and LASC10089 Current Issues in Phonology.

See LASC10088 on DRPS.