Spring 2007

FR 359 • Topics in French Grammar

Course Description

*this course will be taught primarily in French*

In this course, students will be exposed to a number of fundamental principles which structure the French and English language. This systematic comparison will be conducted in three areas: the sound (phonology), the word-composition system (morphology) and the lexicon.

From a phonetic point of view, we will compare two distinctive modes of articulation that oppose English and French, and study the ramifications of this basic opposition into the realm of rhythm and prosody. In morphology, we will focus on the notion of grammatical head as we study principles of word derivation, composition and inflection. The levical component will explore primarily various aspects of the Learned Latinate - Popular French Continuum, as well as the role of the Saxon component in English. Lexical gaps will also retain our attention.

This course will be of great interest to students who seek a better understanding of the grammar of words in French, English and language in general.

Grading Policy

Assignments/Grading

three in-class exams (75%)

homework, preparedness, attendance (25%)

Texts

Joëlle Gardes-Tamine. La Grammaire: 1: Phonologie, Morphologie, Lexicologie, 3rd edition. Cursus. Paris: Armand Colin.

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