This course explores possible differences in language use between men and women and the degree to which these differences may affect gender relations. Do men talk differently than women? Are there gendered communication styles? Do these vary across typical contexts and across cultures? To what extent do these possible differences in language and style reinforce existing power relations between men and women? The course will draw on existing research in the area from a variety of disciplinary perspective and will include opportunities for practical research and field work.

Students will be asked to: 1. Demonstrate understanding of main approaches to language and gender research, including: deficit, dominance & difference models; critical discourse analysis approach (communities of practice); 2. Explain goals and issues involved in various stages of the feminist movement, both past and present; 3. Analyze examples of how gender-differentiated language is acquired and maintained with examples from the media, education and family cultures.