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.

Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:

1. understand the complex nature of learning a second language.
2. identify aspects of learning which are shared by all learners as well as many areas of difference between them.
3. demonstrate a basic understanding of specific language acquisition theories and be able to assess their suitability for describing and/or explaining different dimensions of language learning.
4. conduct a small study on the acquisition of English as a second language demonstrating their ability to:

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 of 600 words each (20% each = 40%)  [LO 1,2,3]

Pilot project of 1,000 words (20%) [LO 4a,c]

Empirical research project of 1,500 words (40%) [LO 4a,b,c]

In addition to the 2.5 weekly contact hours, students will be expected to spend an average of 7.5 hours per week reading and completing assignments.

Either LING1001/2001 Introduction to the Study of Language and one other LING course, preferably LING1020/LING2020 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.

LING6101

General reading brick (Available on WebCT);

Further background reading (Available from Chifley Short Loan);