Course Contents

Core Reading Mitchell, R., Myles, F., & Marsden, E. (2013). Second Language Learning Theories. London: Routledge. Recommended Readings Ellis, R. & Shintani, N. (2014) Exploring language pedagogy through second language acquisition research. London: Routledge. Gass, S. & Selinker, L. (2008). Second Language Acquisition: An Introductory Course. New York: Routledge. Gass, S. & Mackey, A. (2012). The Routledge handbook of second language acquisition Abingdon: Routledge. Gass, S., Behney, J. & Plonsky, L. (2013). Second language acquisition: an introductory course New York: Routledge. Geeslin, K. & Long, A. (2014). Sociolinguistics and second language acquisition Abingdon: Routledge. Harley, T. (2014). The psychology of language London: Psychology Press Lightbown, P., & Spada, N. (2013). How languages are learned Oxford: Oxford University Press. Saville-Troike, M. (2012). Introducing second language acquisition Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. Saxton, M. (2010). Child language: acquisition and development London: Sage.

Course Synopsis

This course offers a foundation in theories, approaches, methods, practice, and materials for the teaching of second and foreign languages from the perspectives of second language acquisition (SLA) research. It provides an overview of foreign language teaching strategies based upon theory, practicum, and creativity; allows for full discussion and analysis of past and current thinking in second language acquisition in principle and in application; and prepares the foreign language teachers with the necessary know-how, dexterity, and confidence to be a capable teacher of foreign languages. The course aims to enable students to: 1. Outline useful areas of past and present trends in second language acquisition theory. 2. Use various approaches and methods of language teaching, as deemed necessary for successful language skill development and implementation. 3. Recognise the latest in technology integration practices. 4. Think and research critically and strategise accordingly. 5. Use a variety of strategies to teach English as a foreign language.

Course Learning Outcomes

1. How first language acquisition takes place. 2. The difference between first language and second language acquisition. 3. How and why students learn a foreign/second the way they do. 4. Methods and trends in teaching foreign languages. 5. The foreign language classroom.