Linguistics A

(3 Credit Hours) · Undergraduate

This course introduces students to basic concepts in linguistics through a focus on the Japanese language and its relation to languages around the world. Using Languages: A Very Short Introduction by Stephen R. Anderson, students will explore linguistic structure, diversity, classification, and change. Topics include how languages are counted, how they are related, how they evolve, and how Japanese fits into this global picture. Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own languages and compare them with Japanese. Each class will follow a consistent three-part structure: (1) a warm-up and sharing activity based on the assigned reading, (2) explanation of key ideas using examples from Japanese and other languages, and (3) a group or pair activity for comparison, discussion, or simple analysis. Students are encouraged to actively participate in class discussions, regardless of their background in linguistics. Japanese may be used during group work or writing when necessary. This course values open exploration and cultural comparison over technical precision. Nagoya, Japan (NJ) course 31060: This course is aimed at students interested in learning how cultural factors play important roles in plots of Japanese anime and manga , which are often lost or become opaque in their translated versions. While gaining introductory knowledge of history, religions and other cultural aspects of Japan, students will examine cultural influences with an emphasis on ethics and religions in anime and manga from the classics to the latest and learn how Japanese people appreciate these works.