In this combined lecture and discussion group I would like to introduce a new model of syntactic analysis that my colleague Thomas Hoffmann and I are currently developing.CASA stands for a "Construction Grammar Approach to Syntactic Analysis”. We intend to create a model for the analysis of sentences
(i) that is compatible with the model of Construction Grammar, which, we believe, offers a more adequate account of how languages are learnt and used, i.e. that fits into the general cognitive and usage-based approach towards language, and
(ii) that is easy and straightforward enough to be used by students, e.g. for the purposes of analyzing concrete sentences in Staatsexamen.
The book, we hope, will eventually replace Herbst & Schüller (2008), which is one of the options in Staatsexamen at the moment.
The course will
(i) provide a short survey of constructionist approaches,
(ii) outline the CASA model,
(iii) highlight particular aspects of English grammar, and
(iv) provide an opportunity to practice syntactic analysis and, if necessary, to modify the model.
This course does not presuppose any familiarity with Construction Grammar or other syntactic theories. IT IS OPEN TO EVERYBODY WHO IS INTERESTED IN HOW WE CAN COMBINE A COGNITIVELY PLAUSIBLE MODEL OF LANGUAGE WITH PRACTICAL ANALYSIS AND ALSO WITH LANGUAGE TEACHING.
This is my last lecture course before my retirement.