Discussion #3

 In my study of Korean, I observe a highly systematic and multi-layered set of language structures that closely align with the diagram presented on page 9 of Aitchison’s linguistics, which conceptualizes language as an interconnected system composed of phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. Korean clearly demonstrates how these levels operate together rather than independently, with structural choices often carrying social and psychological meaning beyond their grammatical function.At the phonological level, Korean is characterized by a three-way distinction among plain, aspirated, and tense consonants. Although subtle for learners, these contrasts are structurally meaningful and affect lexical distinction. Phonological processes such as sound assimilation and batchim (final consonant) variation further illustrate how surface pronunciation is shaped by underlying rules. Morphologically, Korean is an agglutinative language in which grammatical meaning is…

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Discussion #2

Overall, I predominantly agree with the assessments presented in Figuring Foreigners Out and Hofstede’s cultural dimensions, particularly their analyses of individualism versus collectivism, high- versus low-context communication, and cultural attitudes toward hierarchy and social relationships. These frameworks offer a useful lens for understanding why behaviors that seem natural in one culture may be interpreted very differently in another. Through my own language-learning experiences, I have come to realize that many communication difficulties arise not from insufficient linguistic knowledge, but from differing cultural assumptions about how meaning, respect, and relationships are expressed.That said, I also find certain statements and generalizations in the readings potentially problematic. Although the authors emphasize that cultural dimensions exist along a continuum rather than as rigid binaries, these frameworks can easily be oversimplified in practice. Labeling an entire…

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Learning Plan

My goal is to improve my proficiency in Korean while deepening my understanding of Korean culture. I focus on task-based learning activities that combine language practice in writing (grammar), allowing me to actively use Korean in real-life contexts.Organization of Learning:Textbook Study: I use Yonsei Korean 3 and plan to complete at least three sections per week, practicing grammar, sentence structures, and dialogues.Vocabulary Practice: Each week, I read and practice 40 words (including both old and new) to strengthen retention and expand my active vocabulary.Listening and Comprehension: I keep watching the musical repeatedly, with and without subtitles, to improve listening skills and familiarize myself with natural speech patterns.Speaking Practice: I practice conversations based on the textbook and musical content, both independently and with peers when possible.Resources:Yonsei Korean 3 for structured grammar and exercises.Korean musical videos onlineApp (韩语单词) for vocabulary…

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Discussion #1

The readings on language learning and the relationship between language and the brain prompted me to reconsider the complexity of language acquisition and the factors that shape how languages are learned and used. Rather than presenting language as a purely mechanical skill grounded only in memorization or repetition, the texts emphasize that language learning is a dynamic process involving biological foundations, cognitive mechanisms, social interaction, and the construction of meaning. This perspective strongly aligns with my own experiences as a foreign language learner and helps explain both my progress and my persistent difficulties.One question that emerged while engaging with the readings concerns the extent to which biological factors determine language learning outcomes. The authors discuss how the human brain is structurally prepared for language processing and how specific neural systems support speech production and comprehension. However, this raises the question of why…

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