Table of contents

The course is connected to the following study programs

Teaching language

English

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of this course students have

• knowledge of the stages of first language acquisition

• broad knowledge of theories and models of language acquisition

• knowledge of linguistic and experimental approaches to the study of language acquisition

Upon successful completion of this course students can

• critically evaluate theories and evidence about the biological and environmental basis of language acquisition. • critically evaluate theories of the acquisition of different levels of language structure

• critically evaluate theories of multilingual and atypical language acquisition

• write clear and concise summaries of key research articles and well-structured essays.

Contents

The aim of this course is to familiarize students with the key issues in language acquisition and the various theories and approaches that seek to explain how children acquire language. The main focus is on first language acquisition. Acquisition of all levels of language structure will be discussed and as well as multilingual and atypical language acquisition.

Topics to be covered focussing on English:

• Theories and stages of child language development

• Methods and approaches

• The acquisition of sounds, words, morphology and syntax

• Multilingual language acquisition

• Atypical language acquisition

Teaching and learning methods

Lectures and discussions. Active and regular participation is expected. The estimated workload is approximately 270 hours.

Examination requirements

All obligatory tasks must be approved in order to be eligible to take the exam. An overview of the obligatory tasks will be given at the start of the term.

Examinations

A individual take home written examination consisting of essay questions. Information about the exam will be given at the start of the term. Graded assessment.

Student evaluation

The study programme manager, in consultation with the student representative, decides the method of evaluation and whether the courses will have a midterm- or end of term evaluation, see also the Quality System, section 4.1.

Offered as a free-standing course

Yes, if there are places available

Admission Requirement if given as a free-standing course

Identical to the admissions requirements for the programme.

Admission for external candidates

No

Reduction of Credits

This course’s contents overlap with the following courses. A reduction of credits will occur if one of these courses is taken in addition:

Course Reduction of Credits
EN-425 – Language Acquisition. 10
Last updated from FS (Felles studentsystem) Oct. 15, 2026 10:06:20 AM