You Know More Than Your English Teacher

Course Description

Have you ever questioned whether the rules of grammar that you learned in English class are really necessary (after all, who doesn’t say “you and me” sometimes)? Have you ever wondered how you’re able to understand the newest slang terms easily, but your parents think that they make no sense? Have you ever heard someone say something that “just doesn’t quite sound right”, but you can’t figure out why? Then this is the program for you!

In this course, you will have the opportunity to explore the extraordinary amount of knowledge about language that is in our brains, much of which we never have to be explicitly taught nor even realize that we have. We will learn about just how much it takes to really “know” a language, as well as what it takes to uncover that knowledge. A wide range of topics connected to the field of linguistics will be covered, with a particular focus on popular questions and widespread myths that you have almost certainly encountered before. From people claiming that some languages are “better” or “worse” than others, to ideas about using language in the “right” or “wrong” way – this course will provide you with the opportunity to consider these kinds of issues in a deep and thoughtful manner, supported by concrete evidence and approaches used by actual linguists. Throughout the five-day program, our emphasis will be on engaging in hands-on activities, solving language puzzles, and exploring the questions about language that YOU are interested in.

No prior background in language or linguistic studies needed, and we promise you don’t need to be able to speak more than one language (spoiler alert: many linguists don’t!). If possible, please bring a computer or tablet, as some of the activities we do will work better if you have access to an electronic device other than a phone. This is a very hands-on course, so the more you are able to commit to it, the more you will get out of it.

In short, if you’re curious to learn more about how languages and linguistics work, then we hope to see you here!