Language acquisition

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the basic problems, concepts and theories relating to the process of second (or foreign) language acquisition/learning, and to relate them to the student's self-reflection on their own learning/acquisition processes (e.g. individual learning strategies).

Content distribution:

The course in this semester will explore the language of second language learners and factors contributing to L2 variation

- learner characteristics

- learning conditions

- the language of L2 learners

- contrastive analysis, error analysis, and interlanguage

- developmental sequences

- first language influence

- vocabulary

- pragmatics

- phonology

- individual differences in language learning

- learner characteristics (intelligence, language learning aptitude, learning

styles, personality, attitudes and motivation, motivation in the classroom,

identity and ethnic group affiliation)

- age and L2 learning (critical period hypothesis)

- cognitive styles and learning strategies

Required reading (selected chapters):

Brown, H.D. 2007. Principles of Language Learning and Teaching. Pearson 3rd ed.

Lightbown, P.M. and N. Spada, 2013. How Languages are Learned. OUP, 4th ed.

Additional reading (selected chapters):

Crystal, D. The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Language 3rd Edition. CUP.

Assessment Methods

- Preparation for classes and active participation in classes (U1, U3, K1)

- final test (W1, W2, U2)

The final grade will be given in reference to the following scale:

60%-71% = 3.

72%-76% = 3+

77%-84% = 4.

85%-90% = 4+

91%-100% = 5.

The students are evaluated in accordance with the university regulations, and they must attend all course meetings.

Informed participation in class discussions (including on-line interaction)– based on completion of the assigned reading and supportive collaboration with classmates – is also required.

Each class absence has to be excused in the first week after the lesson missed. The final grade percentage can be reduced by 10% for every unexcused absence. This relates also to the failure to complete the assigned tasks.

The instructor is authorized to refuse credit when the student’s absenteeism rate is around 50% even if the absences have had valid reasons.

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