This course is an introduction to historical linguistics, the study of how languages change over time. Topics include: types of language change (sound change, analogy, borrowing, etc.); linguistic reconstruction; the origins of modern languages.

Historical Linguistics, An Introduction, 2nd Edition. 2004. Lyle Campbell. MIT Press.

Exams (55%). There will be one mid-term and one final, weighted equally. I will give you at least two weeks notice before an exam date. There will be no make-up exams. If you absolutely cannot make it to an exam, you must let me know in advance.

Assignments (30%). Assignments will teach you how to do historical linguistics more than anything else. If you understand the assignments, you will do well on the exams. In general, homework will be assigned every other Thursday, and will be due the following Thursday. Assignments are to be turned in in class, at the beginning of class, and must be typed. I will not accept late assignments. You may work together, as long as you (i) write up the assignment you turn in on your own; and (ii) write the name of the person you worked with at the top of the page below yours.

Presentations (10%). I would like each of you to give a short, focused, 10-20 minute in-class presentation on a topic of your choice, relating to language change. I am happy to help you choose a topic either via email or during office hours. You should choose a date for your presentation by the 1st of March. You are also welcome to present before that date; just let me know.

Attendance (5%). You may miss up to two lectures without penalty and without excuses. These two absences should be enough to cover most illnesses, family emergencies, and days of religious observance. If your absences do not exceed two, you get the full six points for the attendance portion of your grade. If you miss more than two classes, your grade will be reduced by two points for each excess absence, up to a maximum of five points. If you feel you merit an exception to this rule, then you should talk to me about it at the end of the semester. I will look at your attendance record and ask you to explain your absences.

http://dstmte.net/lgcs101

Email is the best way to contact me:
meredith.landman -at- gmail.com or
meredith.landman -at- pomona.edu

Be aware of regulations on academic honesty! Ask me when in doubt. The following are considered to be cheating: copying or sharing all or part of a homework assignment; copying answers from books; copying or sharing information during an exam.