Short description:

The Routledge Handbook of Second Language Acquisition brings together 36 leading international figures in the field to produce a state-of-the-art overview of second language acquisition.

Long description:

The Routledge Handbook of Second Language Acquisition brings together fifty leading international figures in the field to produce a state-of-the-art overview of Second Language Acquisition.

The Handbook covers a wide range of topics related to Second Language Acquisition: language in context, linguistic, psycholinguistic, and neurolinguistic theories and perspectives, skill learning, individual differences, L2 learning settings, and language assessment. All chapters introduce the reader to the topic, outline the core issues, then explore the pedagogical application of research in the area and possible future development.

The Routledge Handbook of Second Language Acquisition is an essential resource for all those studying and researching Second Language Acquisition.

A 2012 CHOICE Outstanding Academic Title

"This is an excellent collection of writings on traditional and developing areas of study in second-language acquisition learning and teaching. Summing Up: Essential." - CHOICE

"The editors, Susan M. Gass and Alison Mackey, have done a sterling job with this Handbook. The biggest names and rising stars in the fields of second language teaching and language learning have contributed to this "magnum opus". The chapters share a common structure and are highly accessible. I finished most chapters with a sudden ardent desire to plunge into that area and start working on the many unsolved questions in SLA." - Jean-Marc Dewaele, Birkbeck, University of London, UK

"Focusing specifically on second language learning, the 35 chapters that constitute this volume offer fundamental information about both traditional as well as emerging topics in SLA research." - Studies in Second Language Acquisition

"Case studies are presented in each case which further help the reader grasp a better understanding of the theoretical frameworks and claims. Moreover, the importance of this volume lies on the sections which bridge the gap between theory and its application to second language classroom. Possible future research and directions are also of great value." - Alexandra Galani, University of Ioannina

Table of Contents:

Section 1: Language in Context 1. Interactionist approach 2. The role of Feedback 3. Variationist perspectives 4. Sociocultural theory 5. Complexity theory/emergentism Section 2: Linguistic Perspectives Part One: Language Form 6. Phonology 7. L2 Morphosyntax/Syntax Part Two: Meaning 8.Semantics 9. Pragmatics 10. Vocabulary Section 3. Psycholinguistic and neurolinguistic perspectives 11. Processing 12. Frequency-based accounts13. Competition model 14. Processability theory 15. Noticing/attention/awareness 16. Input processing 17. Neurolinguistics Section 4. Skill Learning 18. L2 reading 19. L2 writing 20. L2 speech production 21. L2 speech perception 22. Oral versus written production Section 5. Individual Differences 23. Aptitude 24. Motivation 25. Issues of identity 26. Working memory 27. Language learning across the lifespan 28. Educational level 29. Attrition/fossilization 30. Heritage language learners 31. Advanced language proficiency Section 6. The Setting for Learning 32. Learning in a second language setting (study abroad) 33. Classroom research including SL and FL environments Section 7. Assessment of L2 knowledge 34. Learning through technology 35.Assessing learner knowledge