UROP Project
Intonation patterns, language contact, sociolinguistic factors, border regions, Uruguay, Brazil
Research Mentor: rf20cw@my.fsu.edu Raquel Ferreira, She/Her/Hers
Department, College, Affiliation: Modern Languages and Linguistics, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: rf20cw@my.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Modern Languages and Linguistics, Arts and Sciences
Contact Email: rf20cw@my.fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Number of Research Assistants: 1
Relevant Majors: Open to all majors.
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Remote or In-person: Partially Remote
Approximate Weekly Hours: 5-10 hours a week,
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link: Not participating in the Roundtable
Project Description
This project investigates the intonation patterns of Spanish spoken in border regions where language contact is prevalent, particularly in two towns on the Uruguayan border: Bella Unión and Rivera. It aims to analyze the phonetic and phonological characteristics of both languages as spoken by individuals in these regions. The study focuses on the sociolinguistic factors that influence linguistic variation, with a particular emphasis on the intonation of yes/no questions, and declarative sentences. By examining the unique intonation patterns in these bilingual communities, the research seeks to contribute to a deeper understanding of how language contact and bilingualism shape regional Uruguayan Spanish. The project also explores how the interaction between Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese in these border areas leads to specific phonetic and phonological features. Through this analysis, the research will provide insights into the broader implications of language contact on linguistic variation, offering valuable perspectives on the evolution and adaptation of intonation patterns in bilingual environments.Research Tasks: Data collection and data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: Knowledge of Spanish
Mentoring Philosophy
I believe mentoring is founded on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment. My approach is collaborative, centered on creating a space where the students who work with me feel heard and supported. I understand that education extends beyond the classroom; it's an opportunity to develop essential life skills while pursuing academic goals.I encourage students to step out of their comfort zones, helping them build resilience and a growth mindset. I expect the students who work with me to take charge of their goals, be proactive, and remain open to feedback.
For me, success means seeing these students make progress toward their personal and professional goals while building trusting relationships. Therefore, my goal is to inspire them to become confident, independent thinkers who are equipped to contribute significantly to their chosen fields.