Reading and discussions of current developments and issues in linguistics. 

This course is not offered on a regular basis. The course offering for Fall 2026 is:

SPAN 4120 - SPAN 6120 / LING 4940 - LING 6940

Topics in Linguistics: Linguistic transfer & third language acquisition (Dr. Timothy Gupton)

 What happens in the mind of a polyglot? What do linguistic theory and research have to say about it? In this class we will examine third language (L3) acquisition, which is sometimes also known as "Ln acquisition" since reearch in this area is assumed to be similar for all languages subsequent to the second language (L2). In this class, we will examine L3/Ln acquisition theory and research from a variety of theoretical perspectives. Assuming the existence and importance of linguistic transfer for adult acquirers of additional languages, a point of much debate and discussion surrounds the source(s) of transfer in L3/Ln acquisition: Does transfer occur from the first language (L1) to the L3/Ln, or does transfer occur from the L2? We will examine current evidence that can inform this important question.

Taught in Spanish with readings in English.