JAP4330 – Introduction to the Japanese Language and Linguistics
Course description
Course content
This course aims to introduce students to some essential features of the Japanese language. It covers fundamental issues in Japanese linguistics (language typology, sound system, writing system, lexicon, and grammar) as well as in cultural aspects of the language (language and culture, intercultural communication, gender, politeness, role language etc.) Basic concepts in Japanese linguistics will be introduced to help students understand the content of the lectures.
Learning outcome
- To gain a fundamental linguistic knowledge of the Japanese language
- To understand the functions of language in society and culture
- To develop a comparative framework to see the differences between Japanese and other languages
- To learn how to collect and analyze linguistic data
- Skills in presenting findings and engaging in academic dialogue
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
Please see the admission requirements defined by the programme option Japanese Studies.
No prior linguistic training is required. However the intermediate level of the Japanese language proficiency (JAP2110 – Japansk 3+4 (discontinued) / JAP3010 – Japansk E or JLPT N3) is requisite.
Teaching
Autumn 2021: Teaching will follow the guidelines for preventing the spread of Covid-19.
The course is taught through a combination of lectures and seminars organized as 10 classes of 3 hours each (including extra hours of reading Japanese texts) throughout the semester. The course presupposes active participation in class.
Compulsory activities:
- attendance to 8 out of 10 seminars
- small assignments related to the articles and primary sources discussed in class
- outline of an oral presentation, including a bibliography, subject to prior approval by the teacher
- oral presentation on the basis of the outline
An approved outline and oral presentation is only valid for one semester. Other approved compulsory activities are valid in the present semester as well as the next two semesters that the course is given.