Department of English

Department History | Faculty | Student Information | Publications

Mark Balhorn

Mark Balhorn received his Ph.D. in English Linguistics from the University of Wisconsin--Madison, his MA in Applied Linguistics from the University of Kansas, and his BA in Political Science from Michigan State University. At UWSP since the fall of 1991, he teaches introductory courses in writing, as well as linguistics, English grammar, and the history of the English language. He stresses student involvement in the classroom rather than lecture. A student enrolled in one of Professor Balhorn's classes can expect to engage in group discussion and problem-solving on an almost daily basis, and to make a presentation to the class at least once a semester.

Professor Balhorn's research interests include theoretical linguistics, second language acquisition, and the socio-political issues associated with teaching English as a second language. His recent research and publication are about the representation of African-American dialects in American literature.

Courses

• Freshman English 101
• Freshman English 102
• Introduction to Linguistics 240
• English Grammars 342/542