Fall 2008

LAS 322 • INDIGENOUS LANGS OF AMERICAS

Course Description

This course is an introduction to the indigenous languages that are and have been spoken in the Americas. It begins with an overview of the languages and their status, and then considers some of the diverse linguistic structures that American indigenous languages have. The cultural and social domains in which American indigenous languages exist are examined, as is the history of language contact and language change in different areas.

Ten assignments are required. They will consist of either analytical problem sets or short papers on assigned topics. Grades will be based on the assignments (80%) and also on class attendance and class participation (20%).

Texts

Shirley Silver and Wick R. Miller. 1997. American Indian Languages. The University of Arizona Press. Additional readings will be placed on reserve in the linguistics department library.

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