Detailed Study Notes on Exam Information, Semantics, and Language Change

Exam Taking Information

  • Students are allotted 50 minutes for the exam, but typically don't need that much time.

  • There will be two attempts for the exam, and the average of the two scores will be taken as the final grade.

  • Students should be prepared for the first attempt since both attempts contribute to the average score.

  • The instructor will record the completion of the exam attempts.

Accommodation Requests

  • The instructor is open to accommodation requests for extra time or needs.

  • Students should email or speak in person to remind the instructor of any accommodation needs.

Class Schedule and Support

  • The instructor will be available during class on Thursday for questions.

  • Students can use a quiet space to take the exam if they prefer, emphasizing the instructor's availability to assist.

  • Office hours are on Thursday around noon and on Zoom the following day for additional process-related inquiries.

Writing Center Opportunities

  • The writing center is hiring for the fall semester, and students are encouraged to apply if they have writing skills and a desire to tutor.

  • Working at the writing center is a valuable experience for those looking to enhance their resumes and develop their skills.

  • Dr. Carrie can be contacted for application queries.

Semantics Chapter Overview

  • The second exam will cover the semantics chapter, which is distinct from the first exam.

  • Topics include lexical semantics, which discusses how meanings of words change over time.

  • The relationship of language to thought and reality will also be discussed, emphasizing semantic theories.

Processes of Semantic Change

  • Key terms related to semantic change include:

    • Euphemism: A word or phrase that makes a negative or unpleasant concept sound better.

    • Dysphemism: A word or phrase used to make something sound worse.

    • Generalization: The broadening of a word's meaning over time; e.g., "car" now includes various types like trucks and SUVs.

    • Specialization: The narrowing of a word's meaning; e.g., "deer" once referred to all animals, now refers specifically to a particular type of animal.

    • Metaphorical extension: Applying a word beyond its original meaning based on some similarity; e.g., "mouse" in computing.

Group Discussion Activity

  • Students will be organized into pairs or groups to discuss the meanings of assigned terms and to provide examples of how meanings have changed.

  • Examples should illustrate the processes discussed, potentially using textbook examples or personal examples deemed clearer.

Examples and Illustrations of Semantic Change

  • Generalization examples:

    • "Google" originally referred to a company but now means to search for information online (e.g., "I Googled something").

    • "Holiday" originally referred to religious days; now it means any non-working day.

    • "Barn" originally was specifically for barley; now it can refer to any storage building.

    • "Man" historically referred to humans in general but now tends predominantly to refer to adult males.

  • Specialization examples:

    • "Apple" once referred generically to any fruit but now refers specifically to the fruit known as an apple.

    • "Deer" used to mean general animals but now names a specific animal species.

  • Euphemism and Dysphemism examples:

    • Euphemism: "Passed away" instead of "died".

    • Dysphemism: "Kick the bucket" for die.

Theories Related to Semantics and Language

  • A significant theory discussed is the Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis regarding the relationship between language, thought, and reality:

    • Strong Version: Language determines thought; one cannot think beyond their language's constraints.

    • Milder Version: Language influences perception and understanding of reality.

  • This theory relates to the use of euphemisms and dysphemisms, impacting how societal issues are framed and understood through language.

Political Correctness and Language Impact

  • Discussion on how politically correct terms seek to reduce bias but may not fully address inequality.

  • Examples:

    • Using "chairperson" instead of "chairman".

    • Using "flight attendant" instead of "stewardess" or "steward".

    • Critical perspective on whether changes in language reflect genuine improvements in gender equality or social justice.