ALM5250

Second language acquisition

Michael Clyne

12 points -Second semester -Clayton -2 hours per week or distance education -This subject is available in both modes in 1999.

Objectives Students successfully completing this subject should understand the theories and processes of second language acquisition, be able to test them empirically and relate them to their own experience and needs as language teachers, learners and/or policy planners.

Synopsis This subject introduces students to the study of second language acquisition and attrition. In it we explore the relation between first and second language acquisition; learning/acquisition contexts; foreign language learning vs. second language acquisition; contrastive and error analysis; interlanguage; learner variability - age, aptitude, cognitive styles, attitude and motivation; theories of second language acquisition; learning strategies; classroom interaction analysis; implications for curriculum content; and attrition as the inverse of acquisition. Students will be able to work on problems in a language of interest to them.

Assessment Two assignments (3000 words each): 30% each -Open-book test (approx. 4 hours): 40%

Prescribed texts

Ellis R The study of second language acquisition OUP, 1994

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