This course considers some standard methods of analyzing text and discourse, and theories behind those methods, including critical discourse analysis, content analysis and ethnography of communication. The main emphasis is on qualitative methods of analyzing language use in its social context. During the course we will examine in detail both some classic studies and latest developments in the field, and hands-on projects will familiarize students with the empirical analysis of text and discourse in practice. Course work includes weekly sessions, background readings, and a project containing an oral presentation in the class and a final essay. A reading list will be provided in the beginning the course.