Practice in a Second Language: Perspectives from Applied Linguistics and Cognitive Psychology

Cambridge Applied Linguistics

by Robert DeKeyser (Editor)

Practice as a necessity for learning a second language has been a tacit assumption among language teachers for quite some time; however, the concept has not been widely considered from a theoretical perspective until now. This volume of twelve original articles focuses on the topic, with attention to the four skill areas of reading, writing, listening and speaking. The contributors explore a number of questions including what kind of practice is most effective, in what contexts, and for what kinds of learners. This text will serve as a valuable resource and reference for second-language educators and researchers alike.

Genres: Linguistics

336 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2006

Reviews

[Casey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Found section 1, Foundations, & 3, Individual Differences, interesting and useful. Helps banish the notion that killing & drilling is useful. Knowledge of your students, focus on discrete errors, working towards automaticity, and planning(w/ tweaks along the way) will make for a stronger language course. A few chapters are jargon heavy but overall its approachable. The issues it raises: what is practice, how should we practice, & what constitutes optimal practice, are important and deserve thought.