PL1LB-Language in the Brain

Module Provider: Clinical Language Sciences
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites:
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Christos Pliatsikas
Email: c.pliatsikas@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:
This is an introductory course on the neurological origins of language

Aims:
This module introduces students to the brain correlates of language acquisition and processing. The different aspects of language will be separately examined, including comprehension (reading, listening) and production (spoken, written). Acquired and developmental language disorders will be introduced, with reference to how they are linked to abnormal bran structure and function. Special consideration will be given to the methods employed in the study of the neuroscience of language, as well as topics such as bi/multilingualism and sign language.

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module it is expected that students will be able to demonstrate knowledge and understanding of:



• the main areas of the brain that are involved in language production and comprehension

• the relevant theoretical concepts regarding language acquisition and processing from a neurological perspective

• the link between brain abnormalities and acquired and developmental language disordersÌý

• the methods that are appropriate for the study of language in the brainÌý

• the effects of bi-/multilingualism on the brain structure and function, including bimodal bilingualismÌý

Additional outcomes:

By the end of this course, students will be able to demonstrate that they can:



• demonstrate knowledge about how language is organised in the brain

• show understanding of the methods used in language research, and which methods are appropriate for different research questionsÌý

• show knowledge about how language impairment is linked to brain impairment

Outline content:

The neuroanatomy of language; Methods in language research; The sounds of language; Lexicon in the brain; grammar in the brain; written language; bilingualism; language acquisition; Acquired language disorders; developmental disorders; sign language and bimodal bilingualism

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

• Lectures, including interactive sessions, group discussions and demonstrations, where appropriateÌý

• Recommended reading from additional textbooks and research articles