Language: The First 20 Years (S Lange WiSe 2023/24)

This course will chart the linguistic development from our very first experience with language up to adolescence: we will first look at child language acquisition both in monolingual and multilingual environments. We will then consider the process of learning how to read and write, which is a given for many, but not all children globally. Later, the impact of the peer group kicks in and gives rise to a range of distinct youth styles: We will treat the linguistic choices of Jocks and Burnouts, Nerd Girls and Frat Boys, street gangs and young urban professionals. Finally, we will inquire into the status or stability of the language in our youth over time.

When: FRI 3.DS

Where: ABS/2-09/U