This course examines syntactic similarities and differences among a wide range of languages, e.g., Irish, Chamorro, Japanese, German, English. Topics include: word order, movement, binding, relativization, subordination.

Carnie, Andrew. 2007. Syntax: A Generative Introduction (2nd Edition). Blackwell.

Exams (55%). There will be three exams, given every four or five weeks. No make-up exams will be given; if you absolutely cannot make it to an exam, youmust let me know in advance.

Homework (35%). Homework assignments will teach you how to do syntax more than anything else. They are the best preparation for the exams. In general, assignments will be posted online on Wednesdays,and will be due the following Wednesday at the beginning of class. No late assignments will be accepted. 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.

Attendance (6%) and Participation (4%). 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 portionof 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 six 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/teaching/ling498y

Email is the best way to contact me:
meredith.landman@gmail.com

Be aware of university 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.