This course gives an overview of the field of second language acquisition research. The study of second language acquisition started out as a primarily pedagogical enterprise and has now taken a distinctly cognitive slant. This course will trace the historic factors leading to this development, in particular theory formation and the analysis of observational data. A number of approaches to the explanation of language acquisition will be reviewed and evaluated against the background of empirical research.

(a) collect their own data based on methodological principles taught in the course;

(b) apply Processability Theory in analysing their data and determining which stage of acquisition their learner has reached with respect to word order as well as morphology,

(c) produce a research report which presents their data and findings in ways appropriate to the discipline.

2 assignments (40%), Pilot project (20%), Empirical research project (40%).

In addition to the contact hours, students will be expected to spend an average of 5 hours per week reading and completing assignments.

Either LING1001/2001 Introduction to the Study of Language and one other LING course, preferably LING1020 Structure of English or LING2003 Introduction to Syntax. Students who have not completed these prerequisites but have completed units in other languages should seek the written permission of the lecturer.

General reading brick (Available on WebCT);

Further background reading (Available from Chifley Short Loan);