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HI-LING
LINGUISTICS IN THE HIGH SCHOOL
Introduction to Historical Linguistics
Has the English language always remained unchanged? How has it evolved into the language we use today? Historical linguistics looks at how language changes over time, focussing on different aspects such as morphology (= how are words put together?), syntax (= how are sentences formed), and phonology (= what are the sounds of a language).
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It is a basic rule that languages change over time. We consider this as neither good nor bad, it is just a natural process. Every part of a language can change, but it depends on the situation: what changes exactly, and how does it change? Looking at language change, we can look at it from two perspectives: on the one hand, there is variation at the same time (= synchronic variation); on the other, we can look at change over time (= diachronic variation).
Concept
Language change happens on different levels. Firstly, we will explore the history of English before focusing on the levels of phonology, morphology, and semantics. These four lessons consist of two theoretical inputs, each of which is completed with an exercise section. The exercises can be solved individually or in groups. Some of the exercises are based on videos, pictures or online activities, which can be accessed via a link. The same applies to the solutions following the exercises or discussion sections – a link leads you to a PDF with suggested solutions.
Sources used