LIN2550 - Second Language Acquisition and Attrition

Leader: Dr Julie Bradshaw

Offered

Clayton Second semester 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

The distinction between language learning and acquisition; the social context of these; the relation between first, second and bilingual acquisition; interlanguage and interference; grammaticalisation phases; factors in successful second language acquisition; bilingual education; attrition as the inverse of acquisition; activation and reactivation of language skills.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of this unit students will be able to:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the major applied linguistic theories that have influenced the field of second language acquisition.

2. Understand the role of the individual learner differences in second language learning.

3. Evaluate the role of internal and external factors in language learning.

4. Analyse a learner's langauge.

5. Apply all these understandings to the practice of enabling learners to learn and acquire a second language in both formal and informal contexts.

6. Relate the research literature to their own and others' second language acquisition experience.

Assessment

Written research assignment (2250 words): 50%
Exam (2 hours): 40%
Class participation (equivalent 250 words): 10%

Contact hours

2 hours (1 x 2 hour seminar) per week

Prerequisites

A first-year sequence in Linguistics.

Prohibitions

GRN2135, GRN3135, GRN2130, GRN3130, CHI2550, CHI3550, ITA2550, ITA3550, MGR3550 or SPN3550