13 Linguistics
Linguistics (LIN)
Analyzing Meaning: An Introduction to Semantics and Pragmatics
Paul Kroeger (GIAL-Dallas International University)
2018
Licence: CC BY 4.0
This book provides an introduction to the study of meaning in human language, from a linguistic perspective. It covers a fairly broad range of topics, including lexical semantics, compositional semantics, and pragmatics. The chapters are organized into six units: (1) Foundational concepts; (2) Word meanings; (3) Implicature (including indirect speech acts); (4) Compositional semantics; (5) Modals, conditionals, and causation; (6) Tense & aspect.
Most of the chapters include exercises that can be used for class discussion and/or homework assignments, and each chapter contains references for additional reading on the topics covered.
As the title indicates, this book is truly an introduction: it provides a solid foundation that will prepare students to take more advanced and specialized courses in semantics and/or pragmatics. It is also intended as a reference for fieldworkers doing primary research on under-documented languages, to help them write grammatical descriptions that deal carefully and clearly with semantic issues. The approach adopted here is largely descriptive and non-formal (or, in some places, semi-formal), although some basic logical notation is introduced. The book is written at a level that should be appropriate for advanced undergraduate or beginning graduate students. It presupposes some previous coursework in linguistics, but does not presuppose any background in formal logic or set theory.
Formats: PDF and LaTeX
Includes: Discussion and homework exercises
Reviews: Open Textbook Library
Suggested for:
LIN 1315 Introduction to Linguistics
LIN 2356 Conversation Strategies: Introduction to Pragmatics
LIN 3315 Introduction to Semantics
Essentials of Linguistics∗ 
Catherine Anderson (McMaster University)
2018
Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0
This Open Educational Resource (OER) brings together Open Access content from around the web and enhances it with dynamic video lectures about the core areas of theoretical linguistics (phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics), supplemented with discussion of psycholinguistic and neurolinguistic findings. Essentials of Linguistics is suitable for any beginning learner of linguistics but is primarily aimed at the Canadian learner, focusing on Canadian English for learning phonetic transcription, and discussing the status of Indigenous languages in Canada. Drawing on best practices for instructional design, Essentials of Linguistics is suitable for blended classes, traditional lecture classes, and for self-directed learning. No prior knowledge of linguistics is required.
Formats: Pressbooks webbook, EPUB, PDF, and MOBI
Includes: Videos, interactive assessments, and summaries
Reviews: Open Textbook Library
Suggested for:
LIN 1315 Introduction to Linguistics
Essentials of Linguistics, 2nd edition∗
Catherine Anderson, Bronwyn Bjorkman, Derek Denis, Julianne Doner, Margaret Grant, Nathan Sanders, and Ai Taniguchi (McMaster University)
2020
Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
This Second Edition of Essentials of Linguistics is considerably revised and expanded, including several new chapters, diverse language examples from signed and spoken languages, enhanced accessibility features, and an orientation towards equity and justice. While the primary audience is Canadian students of Introduction to Linguistics, it is also suitable for learners elsewhere, in online, hybrid, or in-person courses.
Formats: Pressbooks webbook, EPUB, and PDF
Reviews: Open Textbook Library
Includes: Interactive components, exercises, and answer key
Suggested for:
LIN 1315 Introduction to Linguistics
Languages and Worldview∗
Manon Allard-Kropp (University of Missouri–St. Louis)
2020
Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Asking and answering questions about what culture entails and examines the fundamental properties and intertwining nature of language and culture. This text explores linguistic relativity, lexical differences among languages and intercultural communication, including high and low contexts.
Format: PDF
Includes: Videos, transcripts, and exercises
Reviews: Open Textbook Library
Suggested for:
LIN 2356 Conversation Strategies: Introduction to Pragmatics
Psychology of Language∗
Dinesh Ramoo (Thompson River University)
2021
Licence: CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
In this textbook, students are introduced to the fundamental principles of linguistics and psycholinguistics. Students will explore theories and models of language development, comprehension and production as well as bilingualism and reading. All of these topics are approached from a Canadian perspective and include ideas from indigenous cultures and languages of Canada.
Formats: Pressbooks webbook, EPUB, and PDF
Includes: Summaries, questions for critical reflection, and glossary
Suggested for:
LIN 3350 Psycholinguistics
Psychology of Language (Instructor Course Pack)
Dinesh Ramoo (Thompson River University)
2023
Licence: CC BY 4.0
This course will provide students with the fundamentals of linguistic and psycholinguistic theory. Students will explore the nature of language and learn about the basic components studied by psycholinguists. They will also gain an understanding of language development as well as the biological basis of language. Language processes such as comprehension, reading, and speaking will also be explored, along with the current models of comprehension and production.
Formats: online and Word
Includes: syllabus, assignment
Suggested for:
LIN 3350 Psycholinguistics
