SPAN 297 Topics:
This course has the goal of strengthening the Spanish language learner’s understanding and production of Spanish pronunciation and intonation through a practical introduction to phonetics and phonology. In addition to a basic treatment of relevant linguistic concepts, focuses include phonetic transcription of Spanish utterances using the international phonetic alphabet (IPA); a study of the physical production of meaningful sounds as articulated in the mouth, throat and vocal chords; and a consideration of the breadth and importance of regional and sociolinguistic variation. Audio of native speakers from different parts of the Spanish-speaking world will expose students to ways the phonemes and allophones studied are variously realized in everyday speech. Students will also build conversational and presentational skills alongside an explicit focus on pronunciation and intonation.