230556 Linguistic Theory: Prepositions (S) (SoSe 2006)

This class is being offered as a part of Profile Module 1 and will give students the opportunity to explore theoretical approaches to grammar. In doing this we will look at one of the most interesting and relatively least studied parts of English grammar, the preposition. This word class is most often counted among the sets of function words, but sometimes it is regarded as one of the classes of lexical words. And, furthermore, there is an intermediate position which regards some prepositions as function words and some as lexical words.

We will try to explore these different approaches and in this way gain an insight into this puzzling word class. Part of our work will involve defining prepositions, specifically in contrast to adverbs and conjunctions, but also with regard to their more general properties.

Students may get credit within the framework of this class, for one, by successfully completing regular work on the exercises that will be set from time to time. In addition, either a class presentation or the final exam will make up the second component for the B.A. credit points. Students, especially those who are completing the Magister or Staatsexamen program, may also choose topics from this seminar for a term paper or project paper or for the final exam (Abschluß).

A reserved reading shelf will be supplied.