Join LING/CLAS 1010 - The Study of Words

LING/CLAS 1010 investigates the historical origins and structural components of the English vocabulary. While English is a Germanic language, approximately 60% of its words are derived from Latin and Greek elements. This course introduces students to etymological analysis, teaching the skills necessary to trace word histories, track changes in word meanings over time, and systematically decode complex structural vocabulary.

Course topics include the investigation of meaning changes due to cultural contact and shifting societal values, as well as the formation of modern jargon, technical terms, and slang.

Academic & Practical Benefits:

• Academic Requirements: Satisfies General Education core credits in both Social Sciences and Arts & Humanities.
• Skill Development: Provides practical tools for etymological analysis, vocabulary expansion, and comprehension of technical terminology applicable across various majors and graduate exam preparation (such as the GRE).
• Course Structure: Evaluation is based on 8 problem sets, 2 tests, and a final exam. Utilizes the iClicker system.
• Required Materials:English Words from Latin & Greek Elements (Ayers, Worthen & Cherry; University of Arizona Press) and its associated workbook.

No prior background in Latin, Greek, or Linguistics is required