Full Description
Learning Language: First Language, Bilingual, and Second Language Acquisition is the first textbook to offer a holistic introduction to language acquisition, combining from three key fields: child first language acquisition, bi- and mulitilingual acquisition, and second language acquisition.
Rich in pedagogy, this innovative book adopts a distinct interdisciplinary approach to coherently explain how languages are learned. Organised around the linguistic targets of acquisition (sounds, words, structures, communication), the book offers a clear and deep understanding of the commonalities and divergence among these three research traditions. In this volume, Adams, Warren and Wright survey both the core theory principles and research practices in each area. They support students, researchers, and instructors by providing clear explanations, clear examples, and a wide range of instructional materials: from an overview of key research methods and guiding theories to definitions of key terms, reflection questions to spark discussion, and class exercises. Downloadable material is also available, including practical exercises, additional readings, and suggested research topics. Instructors and readers can choose to follow the book structure or to use the three main sections independently, focusing on each type of language acquisition in turn.
This unique book provides an ideal basis for introductory courses in Language Acquisition, ESOL, Applied Linguistics for Language Teaching, Child Language Development, and Speech Pathology programs. It also serves as a flexible and accessible resource for anyone interested in applied linguistics and language acquisition
Contents
Part I: What is Language Acquisition? 1. Introduction to Language Acquisition 2. Diverse Contexts of Language Acquisition 3. Theories of Language Acquisition Part II: Sounds and Words 4. Acquiring Sounds and Words in a First Language 5. Acquiring Sounds and Words in Two or More Languages 6. Acquiring Sounds and Words in a Second Language Part III: Structures 7. Developing Structures in a First Language 8. Developing Structures in Two or More Languages 9. Developing Structures in a Second Language Part IV: Communication 10. Emerging Communication in a First Language 11. Emerging Communication in Two or More Languages 12. Emerging Communication in a Second Language Part V: Continuity 13. Continuities in Language Acquisition
