The Structure of Discourse: Theory and Applications

This course examines the linguistic structure of discourse, with a particular emphasis on learning to identify the emergent structures of spontaneous conversations. Specific topics include: narrative structure; turn-taking; discourse markers; face and politeness; inference and implicature; discourse coherence; reference; intertextuality; stance-taking; and framing. Class-time is split between hands-on data analysis and the discussion of both recent and foundational research on conversation. Throughout the class discussions and data analysis projects, students will also explore how the structure of discourse is shaped by cognition, social identities, interpersonal relationships, and cultural contexts.Prerequisites: Prior coursework in linguistics or permission of the instructor.