Definition of language
Design features of language
Main branches (scope) of linguistics
● 预习:
Speech vs. Writing
Langue vs. Parole
Competence vs. Performance
Traditional grammar vs. modern linguistics
● 思考题:
l. How do you understand that linguistics is the scientific study of language?
2. What are the major branches of linguistics? What does each of them study?
3. Is modern linguistics mainly synchronic or diachronic? Why?