Prospectus

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Second Language Learning and Teaching

Course
2012-2013

Admission requirements

A basic knowledge of Second Language Acquisition is recommended, obtained, for instance, through the English Language and Culture BA course Language Acquisition 5 or an introductory course on Second Language Acquisition.

Description

Applied linguistics is an approach to language and language use that investigates problems and offers solutions. This course looks at Second Language Acquisition (SLA) from an applied linguistic perspective. We try to discover the success and failure of various teaching methods in inducing acquisition, and we do so by looking at what research tells us about these methods. The course introduces the teaching methods and students read articles on these methods as well as Cook’s book on learning and teaching a second language. For the course paper, students test the effects of one or more teaching methods or exercises. Groups or individuals may be tested for this and we will discuss these investigations, their methodologies, as well the findings. This combined theoretical and empirical approach will enable students to make better judgments in their future teaching or research activities.

Course objectives

  • to discover the factors that determine the success or failure of language-teaching methods and techniques

  • to discover the myths and facts about acquiring and teaching a second language through fieldwork

Mode of instruction

2-hour weekly seminar

Assessment method

Course paper (30%); Participation and Homework (30%); Exam (40%)

Blackboard

Yes

Reading list

Cook, V.J. (2009). Second language learning and language teaching. 4th edn. Edward Arnold.

Registration

Students should register through uSis.

Exchange and Study Abroad students, please see the Study in Leiden website for information on how to apply.

Registration Studeren à la carte and Contractonderwijs

Registration Studeren à la carte
Registration Contractonderwijs