7
Linguistics and its branches. Phonetics
Textbook: pp. 14–15
GoalKnow the branches of linguistics and what phonetics studies.
New words
linguistics · tilshunoslikphonetics · fonetikagraphics (study of letters) · grafikaorthography (spelling) · orfografiya
Explanation
Linguistics is the science of language, and it is divided into several branches depending on which side of the language structure it examines. Phonetics deals with sounds, graphics with the system of letters. Orthography teaches the rules of correct spelling, and orthoepy the rules of correct pronunciation. Lexicology examines words and their meanings, morphology examines word classes; syntax studies the sentence and how words in it are connected, and punctuation studies punctuation marks. These branches are closely linked with each other. Phonetics is the branch that studies the sound system of spoken language.
Worked examples
Phonetics: the word «bola» (child) has the sounds b, o, l, a.
Punctuation: the sentence «Aziza, bu yoqqa kel!» (Aziza, come here!) has a comma and an exclamation mark.
Class activity
“Find the branch”: the teacher asks a question («How are words spelled?») and children name the right branch.
Practice
1
Which branch studies the sound structure of language?
Phonetics.
2
Which branch studies correct spelling and which studies correct pronunciation?
Correct spelling — orthography; correct pronunciation — orthoepy.
3
What do lexicology, morphology and syntax study?
Lexicology — words and their meanings; morphology — word classes; syntax — the sentence and the connection of words in it.
4
Why is the branch studying punctuation said to be linked with syntax?
Punctuation marks are placed in sentences and separate sentence parts, making the meaning clear.