Ling 603: Topics in Phonology

Organization of the Phonology

Prof. Gene Buckley
Fall 2011

Tuesdays 1:30–3:30
Location: Phonetics Lab (623 Williams)

This seminar will focus on how the rules or constraints that express phonological generalizations are situated in a larger organizational structure. In derivational theories, this organization has included simple rule ordering after the morphology; interleaving by means of cyclicity; and the levels of lexical phonology. In Optimality Theory, the classic two-level model has been enriched in various ways, including lexical strata and harmonic serialism. These approaches raise issues of opacity and co-phonologies, as well as the relation of rule typology to learning and sound change.

We will discuss the phenomena that these various approaches are intended to model, in particular whether the changes proposed in OT successfully capture the generalizations that led to the various enhancements of derivational theories, and if they are more successful in at least some ways than the ordered-rule approaches.

Because this is a seminar, the format will emphasize discussion rather than lecture. Articles will most often be presented by students. Auditors are expected to participate in discussions and to present readings as well. The grade will be based primarily on a final paper on some topic relevant to the course content.

Readings

Some of the material may not be ready for general circulation, or is not authorized for distribution, so many readings are stored in a password-protected directory. The presenter is indicated in parentheses.

September 20 (Joe)

September 27 (Danielle)

October 4 (Meredith)

October 18 (Constantine)

October 25 (Yong-cheol)

November 1 (Gene)

November 8 (Gene)

November 15 (Joe)

November 22 (Kobey)

 

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