This course examines the socio-historical background to language contact in the Caribbean and explores explanations for the development of the modern language situations of the region. At the end of this course, you should be able to:

1. Evaluate the relevance of the study of language contact to the Caribbean and vice versa;
2. Discuss the impact of pre- and post-Columbian developments in the Caribbean on the indigenous languages of the region;
3. Discuss the factors which led to the emergence of Creole languages in Caribbean plantation societies and maroon communities;
4. Discuss the factors which led to the (partial) survival of African and Asian languages in some Caribbean territories, and their death in others;
5. Discuss the social background to multilingualism in the Caribbean today.

• In-course test: Short answer test (four questions), Monday March 20, 2006.... ... (40%)
• Final Examination. ... ... ... ... ... ... ... . (60%)

Attendance of a minimum of 8 tutorial sessions, regular attendance of lectures, and preparation for and participation in tutorials. You are expected to report on your reading in tutorials. Additional tasks will be assigned for preparation.

NB: This course involves a good amount of reading. It is advised that you read the suggested materials regularly since it is not wise to leave all your reading for the end of the course.

It is strongly recommended that you read as many of the publications as possible. Each student will have to select at least one of the publications (chapter/article) so marked to present on during a tutorial, the rest of the class is also expected to read the material so that everyone can participate.