, ENG1502 ASSIGNMENT 1 2026
DUE DATE: 16 APRIL 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 FALSE
Language as a system of rules does not exclude orthography; rather, it incorporates it as an
essential component of the broader linguistic system. While language is often analysed through
levels such as phonology (sound systems), morphology (word formation), syntax (sentence
structure), and semantics (meaning), orthography governs the conventional rules of spelling and
writing. These rules are particularly important in literate societies where written communication
plays a central role. Therefore, to argue that orthography is excluded from the system of
language rules is incorrect, as it forms part of the codified conventions that ensure clarity,
consistency, and mutual intelligibility in written discourse (ENG1502, 501, 2024).
1.2 FALSE
The statement is incorrect because it confuses two distinct subfields of linguistics, namely
phonetics and phonology. The study of the physiological and physical properties of speech
sounds—such as how sounds are articulated by the vocal organs, transmitted through the air,
and perceived by the ear—is the domain of phonetics. In contrast, phonology is concerned with
how these sounds function within a particular language system, including patterns, contrasts, and
sound rules. Therefore, describing the study of physiological qualities of speech sounds as
phonology is inaccurate, as this falls specifically under phonetics (ENG1502, 501, 2024).
DUE DATE: 16 APRIL 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 FALSE
Language as a system of rules does not exclude orthography; rather, it incorporates it as an
essential component of the broader linguistic system. While language is often analysed through
levels such as phonology (sound systems), morphology (word formation), syntax (sentence
structure), and semantics (meaning), orthography governs the conventional rules of spelling and
writing. These rules are particularly important in literate societies where written communication
plays a central role. Therefore, to argue that orthography is excluded from the system of
language rules is incorrect, as it forms part of the codified conventions that ensure clarity,
consistency, and mutual intelligibility in written discourse (ENG1502, 501, 2024).
1.2 FALSE
The statement is incorrect because it confuses two distinct subfields of linguistics, namely
phonetics and phonology. The study of the physiological and physical properties of speech
sounds—such as how sounds are articulated by the vocal organs, transmitted through the air,
and perceived by the ear—is the domain of phonetics. In contrast, phonology is concerned with
how these sounds function within a particular language system, including patterns, contrasts, and
sound rules. Therefore, describing the study of physiological qualities of speech sounds as
phonology is inaccurate, as this falls specifically under phonetics (ENG1502, 501, 2024).
