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Older than the pyramids, Sumerian was used in ancient Mesopotamia (Southern Iraq). It is probably the world's first written language, and survives on clay tablets in the cuneiform script, dating from c.3000 BCE to the beginning of the Common Era. It abounds in simple inscriptions, ideal for beginners, but also boasts a wealth of more advanced writings, such as fascinating mythological poetry. This comprehensive textbook equips students to read the full range of texts – including the special variety of the language known as Emesal. Drawing on the authors' experience in the classroom, it uses intuitive terminology and also makes extensive use of diagrams, which unravel the language's structures in an easy-to-learn way. The examples and readings are all taken from original sources. The learning journey is further supported by exercises (with key), a full sign list and glossary, and online recordings with 'approximate pronunciations'.
Introducing Environmental Communication offers a critical and interdisciplinary introduction to the field, designed primarily for undergraduate students in both specialist and general courses, as well as for postgraduate and professional learners. Its modular structure allows chapters to be used independently across a wide range of teaching, training, and coaching contexts. The book addresses underrepresented themes, including intercultural communication, postcolonial studies and social psychology, while combining theory with real-world application through staggered tasks, discussion prompts, case studies, and projects. Each chapter is supported by up-to-date examples and structured to guide learners from foundational concepts to more complex analysis. Adopting a critical lens, power and justice inequalities are highlighted and perspectives from the Global South are amplified, conveying both the urgency and complexity of the field. Short videos with accompanying discussion points are available online, enhancing the book's multimedia resources.
This book, which draws on Lisa Bendall's lectures over three decades, provides an engaging and accessible survey of everything students need to know to read and understand texts in Linear B. As John Chadwick noted, the Linear B scholar must be 'not just an epigraphist, not just a linguist, not just an economic historian and archaeologist; ideally he or she…must be all these things simultaneously'. Volume 1 introduces the student to the writing system and the language, especially the phonology and morphology. It also explains the formal aspects of the documents and gives guidance on the tools available to the student and scholar. Volume 2 will provide a guide to using the documents to understand the Mycenaean world.
In recent years, speech recognition devices have become central to our everyday lives. Systems such as Siri, Alexa, speech-to-text, and automated telephone services, are built by people applying expertise in sound structure and natural language processing to generate computer programmes that can recognise and understand speech. This exciting new advancement has led to a rapid growth in speech technology courses being added to linguistics programmes; however, there has so far been a lack of material serving the needs of students who have limited or no background in computer science or mathematics. This textbook addresses that need, by providing an accessible introduction to the fundamentals of computer speech synthesis and automatic speech recognition technology, covering both neural and non-neural approaches. It explains the basic concepts in non-technical language, providing step-by-step explanations of each formula, practical activities and ready-made code for students to use, which is also available on an accompanying website.
Grounded in descriptive linguistics, this textbook introduces the basics of the major subfields of linguistics, as well as the Chinese writing system, for students with no prior linguistic training. It presents the Chinese language from the perspective of both modern linguistics and its longstanding philological legacy, as well as providing historical and sociolinguistic context. Chapters cover phonology and phonetics, morphology, lexicon, lexical semantics, syntax, sign language and braille. Authentic, real-world examples are drawn from Chinese newspapers, websites, and social media to facilitate meaningful linguistic analysis, while other examples contrast English and Chinese to help students grasp key concepts. Students will also benefit from the robust pedagogical approach, which includes learning objectives, guiding questions, checkpoint summaries, discussion questions, exercises, further readings, and bilingual glossaries. Supplementary resources provide answers to exercises, sample course syllabi, links to resources, and recordings of sounds.
The first textbook to bring together the linguistics of both BSL and ASL, this accessible book provides a uniquely international and comparative introduction to the structure and use of signed languages. Presupposing no prior knowledge, it covers all levels of linguistic structure: phonetics/phonology, morphology, the lexicon, syntax, semantics and discourse. Photographic illustrations of BSL and ASL signs feature throughout every chapter, and are linked to over 150 online videos, making this a clear and immersive resource for anyone interested in sign language linguistics. End of chapter exercises, questions for discussion and annotated further reading suggestions allow students to fully engage with the material they have read, and to extend their learning independently.
The first of its kind, this textbook provides a comprehensive introduction to the study of semantics and pragmatics from an interactionist perspective, grounded entirely on empirical methods of social/behavioural science. Designed for advanced undergraduate students, beginning graduate students, and practicing researchers, it responds to the growing requirement that rather than relying on their own native speaker intuitions, students gather and analyze semantic data in a broad range of research contexts, from fieldwork to psycholinguistic and child language research. Practical in its approach, it provides the tools that the advanced student needs in order to 'do' this semantic research, in both field and laboratory contexts. This is facilitated by an innovative view of meaning that combines reference and mental representations as aspects of communicative interaction. It is accompanied by a glossary of terms and a range of exercises for students, along with model answers to the exercises for instructors.
A thorough introduction to formal syntactic typology by a leader in the field, Comparing Syntax systematically covers syntactic variation across languages. The textbook covers word-order parameters, null subjects, polysynthesis, verb-movement, ergativity, interrogatives and negation within a comparative framework, ensuring that readers are able to engage with the key topics in the most up-to-date primary research literature. The comprehensive glossary, end-of-chapter exercises and annotated further reading lists allow readers to consolidate and extend their knowledge as they progress through the book. A self-contained work ideal for intermediate and advanced-level students, Comparing Syntax also builds on the author's Beginning Syntax and Continuing Syntax.
This engaging textbook provides a unique introduction to language and society, by showing students how to tap into the linguistic resources of their communities. Assuming no prior experience of linguistics, it begins with chapters on introductory methods and ethics, creating a foundation for students to think of themselves as linguists. It then offers students the sociolinguistics tools they need to look both locally and globally at language and the social issues with which it interacts. The book is illustrated throughout with examples from 98 distinct languages, enabling students to connect their local experiences with global ones, and each chapter ends with classroom and community-focused exercises, to help them discover the underlying rules that shape language use in their own lives. Students will gain a greater appreciation for, and understanding of, the linguistically diverse and culturally complex sociolinguistic issues around the world, and how language interacts with multiple domains of society.
A comprehensive yet concise history of the English language, this accessible textbook helps those studying the subject to understand the formation of English. It tells the story of the language from its remote ancestry to the present day, especially the effects of globalisation and the spread of, and subsequent changes to, English. Now in its third edition, it has been substantially revised and updated in light of new research, with an extended chapter on World Englishes, and a completely updated final chapter, which concentrate on changes to English in the twenty-first century. It makes difficult concepts very easy to understand, and the chapters are set out to make the most of the wide range of topics covered, using dozens of familiar texts, including the English of King Alfred, Chaucer, Shakespeare, and Addison. It is accompanied by a website with exercises for each chapter, and a range of extra resources.
Historical Sociolinguistics is the study of the relationship between language and society in its historical dimension. This is the first textbook to introduce this vibrant field, based on examples and case studies taken from a variety of languages. Chapters begin with clear explanations of core concepts, which are then applied to historical contexts from different languages, such as English, French, Hindi and Mandarin. The volume uses several pedagogical methods, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the theory and of examples. A list of key terms is provided, covering the main theoretical and methodological issues discussed. The book also includes a range of exercises and short further reading sections for students. It is ideal for students of sociolinguistics and historical linguistics, as well as providing a basic introduction to historical sociolinguistics for anyone with an interest in linguistics or social history.
Designed for graduate students, instructors, and seasoned researchers, this is an essential guide for robust research design and methodology in applied linguistics, covering qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods research. It adopts a structured approach, starting with the foundational principles of research design, methodology, and data collection and analysis, to writing and interpreting, explaining, and reporting research results, bringing together all the steps and processes of research from start to finish in one single volume in a way that is practical, easy to follow, and easy to understand. Throughout, the emphasis is on the process of research and the application of various research techniques and principles across different areas. These characteristics, coupled with numerous pedagogical features such as key term reviews, visuals, research scenarios, and many discussion and activity questions, make the book an indispensable reference and a valuable textbook for courses in second language and applied linguistics research.
Bridging the divide between theory and practice, this textbook provides an easy-to-read introduction to the basic concepts required for translation practice today. Filling a void in the translation textbook market, it is unique in bringing both current theoretical and empirical knowledge to translation practice in a contextualized and relevant manner, to provide an alternative to translation studies surveys and language-specific manuals. This fully updated second edition features the latest ideas, methodologies, and technological advancements in translation theory and practice. It includes a new chapter on the role of the translator, as well as a useful teacher's companion to facilitate instructional use. Each chapter includes a wide range of exercises, textual figures, and examples taken from a range of different languages. The book also includes numerous online resources, such as PowerPoint chapter summaries and multiple-choice tests with answers. It is ideal for language teachers, translation and language students, and language industry professionals.
Designed specifically for class use, this text guides students through developing their own full, working constructed language. It introduces basic concepts and the decisions students need to make about their conlang's speakers and world, before walking them through the process of conlanging in incremental stages, from selecting a language's sounds to choices about its grammar. It includes hundreds of examples from natural and constructed languages, and over seventy end-of-chapter exercises that allow students to apply concepts to an in-progress conlang and guide them in developing their own conlang. Ideal for undergraduates, the text is also suitable for more advanced students through the inclusion of clearly highlighted sections containing advanced material and optional conlang challenges. Instructor resources include an interactive slideshow for selecting stress patterns, an exercise answer guide and a sample syllabus, and student resources include a 'select-a-feature' conlang adventure, a spreadsheet of conlang features, and supplementary documentation for the exercises.
English Phonetics and Phonology provides a detailed yet accessible foundational account of the science of speech sounds. Suitable for introductory courses, this textbook presents the key knowledge to comprehend the nature and function of consonant and vowel sounds as well as other characteristics of spoken language, such as stress, rhythm and intonation. With a focus on the sound system of English, examples from other languages are explored and included throughout, allowing students to better understand English sounds in contrast to these languages. Readers will discover what can be measured in speech and learn the basic functions of Praat. This hands-on-approach encourages students to make their own recordings and perform simple measurements to support their learning. While each of the fourteen chapters can be covered in one seminar, instructors can easily tailor them to fit 10–12 weeks of teaching in a phonetics or linguistics module. With no prior phonetic or linguistic knowledge needed, this textbook is suitable for first year undergraduate students, or anyone interested in developing a fundamental and sustained knowledge of the sound structure of the English language.
We are all familiar with coming across a new word, whether it has just been invented or whether we have just not met it before. How do we invent new words? How do we understand words that we have never heard before? What are the limits on the kinds of words we produce? How have linguists and grammarians dealt with the phenomenon of creating new words, and how justified are their ways of viewing such words? In this concise and compelling book, Professor Bauer, one of the world's best-known morphologists, looks back over fifty years of his work, seeking out overlooked patterns in word-formation, and offering new solutions to recurrent problems. Each section deals with a different morphological problem, meaning that the book can either be read from start to finish, or alternatively used as a concise reference work on the key issues and problems in the field.
A logical and clear exposition of hierarchy and locality by a leading figure in the field, Continuing Syntax takes students from an introductory level of syntactic theory to an understanding of cutting-edge research in the field. A comprehensive range of topics is covered, including configurationality, head-movement, clause structure, nominal structure, subjacency, barriers and phases, ensuring that students have a thorough understanding of all the main components of contemporary theory. The many example sentences, extensive glossary, end-of-chapter exercises and annotated further reading lists allow readers to embed and extend their knowledge as they progress through the book. A self-contained work ideal for intermediate-level students, this volume also builds on the author's Beginning Syntax, and lays the foundation for a third volume, Comparing Syntax, which introduces formal syntactic typology.
An essential resource for trainee teachers and graduate students, this textbook presents strategies and practical advice for preparing and planning lessons in a clear, step-by-step way and demonstrates how to inspire confidence and competence in language learners. Chapters cover many important aspects of initial teacher training including skills development; modes of teaching; unit and lesson planning; assessment; remote learning; digital literacy, and student and teacher wellbeing. Packed with pedagogical value, each chapter includes clear learning objectives, concise chapter summaries, defined key terms, interactive box features, reflective questions and further reading recommendations. Supplementary resources include templates for planning and assessment, feed-forward and feedback forms, extra tasks and activities, and sample answers. By connecting theory and practice, this authoritative guide provides trainee teachers with the necessary tools to develop the knowledge, skills and methods required to become an effective modern languages teacher in a contemporary world.
A rigorous, yet accessible and entertaining introduction to the field of logic, this book provides students with a unique insight into logic as a living field and how it connects to other fields of inquiry including philosophy, computer science, linguistics, and mathematics. With no background knowledge needed, students are introduced to a critical examination of 'classical logic', and the technical issues and paradoxes that may be encountered. Each chapter includes key pedagogical features such as marginal notes, definitions, chapter summaries and practice exercises. Arguments are backed up by authentic examples of logic within natural languages and everyday life. The flexible chapter structure allows instructors to tailor their teaching for either a one-semester or two-semester course, according to their students' needs and knowledge. Online resources include a companion website featuring further readings, class handouts, LaTeX resources, along with an Online Proof Evaluator allowing students to get real-time feedback.
Covering both traditional topics and innovative approaches, this textbook constitutes a comprehensive introduction to English sociolinguistics. Reflecting the field's breadth and diversity, it guides students through the development of research on language and society over the last sixty years, as well as global trends and related fields such as World Englishes, language politics, language and inequality, and translanguaging. It features practical activities, for both individual work and in-class discussion, as well as vignettes introducing specific case studies, additional information on 'out of the box' topics, key terms, and examples from around the world and various social settings. Inspiring, personal and authoritative interviews with leading sociolinguists conclude the book. Assuming only a basic understanding of the English sound system and its grammar, and supported online by additional activities and selected model answers, this is the ideal text for undergraduates wanting an accessible and modern introduction to the field.