How Language Works

ENGL 3371, Fall 2025

Mon/Weds 1:00–2:20pm
				Face to face
				CRN: 33013

Get a hands-on look at the rules and patterns that govern language, revealing the secrets behind how we communicate, think, and connect.

Language touches every aspect of our lives. From reading the morning paper to decrypting secret codes, the subconscious knowledge of language is uniquely human. In this course we'll ask what it means to have a command of language—do animals have it? Infants?

What we'll cover:

  • The sounds of the world’s languages
  • How English builds new words
  • The role of language in society
  • Why languages don’t all share the same word order
  • Why linguists believe in a “universal grammar”

What have previous students said about the course?

Course eval scores from the last time the course was offered:

  • Instructor effectiveness: 4.89/5.00
  • Course was a valuable learning experience: 4.84/5.00

Comments from previous students:

  • "Class was a fun experience and I learned a lot about the value of words and language.”
  • "This has been one of my favorite classes in my three years here. I switched into this class and was nowhere near disappointed... I learned so much, not just about linguistics."
  • "This class was surprisingly fantastic... I learned a great deal, thanks to Prof. Braver—able to break everything down to explain simply."
  • “Possibly the best [course in the English department] I have taken at Tech.”

Want to know more?