Spanish/English Contrasts: A Course in Spanish Linguistics

by Melvin Stanley Whitley

An introduction to Spanish linguistics, with emphasis on applied linguistics, for Spanish students primarily interested in teaching, translation, and other practical applications (as opposed to those who will get advanced degrees in linguistics). Marketing emphasis will be on teacher training courses.This edition incorporates ideas from recent research, new exercises, and additional topics.

Genres: Spanish Literature, Linguistics, Nonfiction

408 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2002

Reviews

[Wenwei · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a pretty straightforward comparison between English and Spanish. My only complaint is the theoretical approach the author used to support his analysis.

[Tom · Rating 5 out of 5]

One day I was driving home from work and I thought -- somewhere there has to be a book that takes what linguists know and lays it out for Spanish teachers.

This is that book.

I tore through this book in just a few days -- I was giddy with delight and couldn't read it fast enough (I'm looking forward to rereading it again more carefully soon!).

On every level, from phonology to intonation to grammar, this book opened my eyes to patterns I knew but didn't totally understand.

It also helped me clarify much of what I believe about teaching grammar, and helped me pinpoint just why so many textbook explanations ring so false.

Do you teach Spanish? Do you translate between Spanish and English? Do you speak Spanish as a second language? If so, buy this book -- it's amazing.