PL3LDG-Language in Genetic Disorders

Module Provider: Clinical Language Sciences
Number of credits: 10 [5 ECTS credits]
Level:6
Terms in which taught: Spring term module
Pre-requisites: PL1LING1 Introduction to Linguistics and PL2LING2 Linguistics 2
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Prof Vesna Stojanovik
Email: V.Stojanovik@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module focuses on different aspects of language and communication in populations affected by genetic disorders (for example: individuals with Williams syndrome, those with Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder etc). Different aspects of language and communication development are covered, such as for example: early language development and precursors to early language, phonological and lexical development, grammatical and pragmatic development, bilingualism, social communication 

Aims:

The module aims: 1) to familiarise the students with current research on language and communication development and impairment in populations affected by genetic disorders, such as for example individuals with Williams syndrome, individuals with Down syndrome, individuals with autism spectrum disorders etc; 2) to provide a wider theoretical context within which research on language and communication in genetic disorders is particularly relevant. 

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the modules, the students will be able to:

• Show in-depth knowledge of the language and communication characteristics of populations the clinical populations covered in the module (for example: individuals with Williams syndrome, individuals with Down syndrome, individuals with autism spectrum disorder etc)


• Show clear understanding of, and critically evaluate theoretical arguments which aim to explain the profiles of language and communication seen in different clinical populations


• Clearly articulate their views on current theoretical debates in the field of language and communication in genetic disorders


• Present their ideas logically and effectively

Additional outcomes:
•Working as part of a group
•Critical thinking
•Presentation skills

Outline content:

The module will provide the students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of how speech, language and communication develops in children affected by different genetic disorders (e.g., Williams syndrome, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder etc), areas of linguistic and cognitive strengths and weaknesses and current theoretical explanations of their language and cognitive profiles. 

Global context:

The studies discussed in the module come from different countries and continents.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

There will be 2 hours of lectures and 12 hours of student-led seminars. Groups of students will present different research papers each week. During the seminars, specific research papers will be discussed in depth and students will be expected to have read the papers and to contribute to the discussion. 

Contact hours:

	Autumn	Spring	Summer
Lectures		2
Seminars		12
Guided independent study:		86
Total hours by term	0	100	0
Total hours for module	100

Summative Assessment Methods:

Method	Percentage
Written assignment including essay	100

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

3000- word essay. 

Formative assessment methods:

There will be plenty of opportunities during the sessions to get feedback on your understanding and knowledge; this will be done via structured worksheets and discussions. Also students will get feedback on their presentations of papers.

Penalties for late submission:

The Support Centres will apply the following penalties for work submitted late:

• where the piece of work is submitted after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): 10% of the total marks available for that piece of work will be deducted from the mark for each working day (or part thereof) following the deadline up to a total of five working days;
• where the piece of work is submitted more than five working days after the original deadline (or any formally agreed extension to the deadline): a mark of zero will be recorded.

The University policy statement on penalties for late submission can be found at: https://www.reading.ac.uk/cqsd/-/media/project/functions/cqsd/documents/cqsd-old-site-documents/penaltiesforlatesubmission.pdf
You are strongly advised to ensure that coursework is submitted by the relevant deadline. You should note that it is advisable to submit work in an unfinished state rather than to fail to submit any work.

Assessment requirements for a pass:
40%

Reassessment arrangements:

Resubmission of a 3000 word essay.

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):
1) Required text books:
2) Specialist equipment or materials:
3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:
4) Printing and binding:
5) Computers and devices with a particular specification:
6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 30 March 2023