NOR1210 – The Nordic Languages
Course description
Course content
The Nordic or North Germanic languages are the Germanic languages spoken in Scandinavia as well as in Iceland and the Faroe Islands. In English, one often finds the term ‘Scandinavian languages’ applied to the same language group. However, due to the geographical distance between these North Atlantic islands and Scandinavia, and because these languages are today quite distant linguistically from the languages in Scandinavia itself, it is more natural to reserve the term ‘Scandinavian’ for the languages used in Denmark, Norway and Sweden. This course aims to give a general overview of the Nordic languages.
Learning outcome
In this course we will look at both the historical development of the Nordic languages and at present-day relationships between them. Particular emphasis will be given to explaining the historical background to the fact that, unlike the languages in Denmark, Norway and Sweden, the languages of the North Atlantic islands and those of Scandinavia are no longer mutually comprehensible. In this connection, we will look more closely at the question of in what way and to what degree neighbouring language communication still exists today.
Admission
Students who are admitted to study programmes at UiO must each semester register which courses and exams they wish to sign up for in Studentweb.
If you are not already enrolled as a student at UiO, please see our information about admission requirements and procedures.
Prerequisites
Formal prerequisite knowledge
No obligatory prerequisites beyond the minimum requirements for entrance to higher education in Norway.Teaching
The course extends over the entire semester with 2 hours of lectures and seminars per week.
Access to teaching
A student who has completed compulsory instruction and coursework and has had these approved, is not entitled to repeat that instruction and coursework. A student who has been admitted to a course, but who has not completed compulsory instruction and coursework or had these approved, is entitled to repeat that instruction and coursework, depending on available capacity.
Examination
An obligatory assignment, either a written assignment of approx 5 pages or an oral presentation, will be given halfway through the semester. This has to be approved before the student can sit for the final exam consisting of a 4 hour school exam. The exam will be awarded a letter grade (A-F where F represent failed).
Examination support material
No examination support material is allowed.
Language of examination
The language of examination is generally English. It is also possible to submit your response in Norwegian, Swedish or Danish.
Grading scale
Grades are awarded on a scale from A to F, where A is the best grade and F is a fail. Read more about the grading system.
Explanations and appeals
Resit an examination
Special examination arrangements
Application form, deadline and requirements for special examination arrangements.
Evaluation
The course is subject to continuous evaluation. At regular intervals we also ask students to participate in a more comprehensive evaluation.