This week we will do Part 1 of Van Gelderen's long chapter on "Modern English". We will do the first 4 sections, pp. 207 - 223, this week and the rest of the chapter, pp. 224 - 236, next week.
The correct section contents are as follows:
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For this class we will study Sections 1 through 4 only. We will do the rest of Chapter 8 next week.
Written Assignment:
1. Read and study Section 1, but do not write an outline of it.
2. Please make a detailed outline of sections 2-4.
Each section has many topics and even subtopics. Make sure to make notes on all of these.
For example, Section 2 has topics or subtopics on: variant spellings; correct pronunciation and regional (and stigmatized) variants; (subtopic) British regional variants; h-deletion; the velar nasal (and its absence); [r] weakening; Linking [r]; intrusinve [r] (these are all subtopics); deletion of the glide [nju] -> [nu]; [a] -> [æ], plus some other vowel changes, middle of p.212; stress pattern;
That's a lot! And that is just Section 2, and without the details, just an enumeration of the topics and subtopics.
So, do this carefully. Make good notes for yourself. This is the only way to really think about these language issues and become familiar with them
3. Pick one topic / subtopic from each section 2-4. Think up some additional examples. Write down two of them for each section, or 6 in all (2 per section for each of section 2-4).
We will discuss them, and other examples, in class.
Make notes on any and all points you would like to raise for further discussion; points that are unclear or confusing; anything at all.
Email to me. NOT to your group.
NB: As always, bring your text to class with you.