Theories in Second Language Acquisition: An Introduction

by Bill VanPatten (Editor), Gregory D. Keating (Editor), Stefanie Wulff (Editor)

This third edition of the best-selling Theories in Second Language Acquisition surveys the major theories currently used in second language acquisition (SLA) research, serving as an ideal introductory text for undergraduate and graduate students in SLA and language teaching. Designed to provide a consistent and coherent presentation for those seeking a basic understanding of the theories that underlie contemporary SLA research, each chapter focuses on a single theory. Chapters are written by leading scholars in the field and incorporate a basic foundational description of the theory, relevant data or research models used with this theory, common misunderstandings, and a sample study from the field to show the theory in practice. New to this edition is a chapter addressing the relationship between theories and L2 teaching, as well as refreshed coverage of all theories throughout the book. A key work in the study of second language acquisition, this volume will be useful to students of linguistics, language and language teaching, and to researchers as a guide to theoretical work outside their respective domains.

Genres: Linguistics, Nonfiction, Language, Education, Reference

324 pages, Paperback

First published September 26, 2006

Reviews

[Gloria Cadenas Rodríguez · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s amazingly organized to explain all the content in comparison to other SLA theories. Definitely a must-read for understanding and developing knowledge in this research area.

[Maryam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A comprehensive overview of the current SLA theories. A must-read for applied linguists 👍🏻

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was used for a Philosophy of Second Language teaching class that I was in. The book has some great material, allows you to read the thoughts of many of the researches who have put forward newer theories (rather than reading someone writing about them), and the final chapter is a great review and summary of the major theories in the book.

For my class, however, this book was a bit to academic and dense. The average student in an introductory course will probably be pretty lost in certain chapters. While some are clearly written, others are unnecessarily wordy and academic.

The book did give me a much better idea of the range of approaches and theories in the field of second language acquisition.

[Kristie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this book is fantastic for beginners. It was written in a way that is easy for budding linguists to understand. I read most of it over the span of two weeks for my class, and I felt very prepared for my test. I will probably not sell this book back because I can see myself referring to it to help me with my more advanced syntax classes.

[Yurttaş Egemen]

Good