Learning a Second Language through Interaction: 17 (Studies in Bilingualism) - Softcover

Ellis, Rod

Softcover

ISBN 10: 9027241252 ISBN 13: 9789027241252

Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Co, 1999

Synopsis

This book examines different theoretical perspectives on the role that interaction plays in second language acquisition. The principal perspectives are those afforded by the Interaction Hypothesis, Socio-Cultural Theory and the Levels of Processing model. Interaction is, therefore, defined broadly; it is seen as involving both intermental and intramental activity. The theoretical perspectives are explored empirically in a series of studies which investigate the relationship between aspects of interaction and second language acquisition. A number of these studies consider the effects of interaction on the acquisition of vocabulary (word meanings) by both adult and child L2 learners. In addition, the effects of language aptitude on input processing are considered. Further studies consider the contribution that interaction makes to the acquisition of grammatical knowledge. These studies provide clear evidence that social and intermental interaction are major forces in the acquisition of an L2. Finally, the book, considers a number of pedagogic specifications. In particular, the importance of discourse control as a means of learners’ obtaining the quality of interaction likely to foster acquisition is discussed.

About this title

Review

I recommend Ellis's book not as the final word on interaction and L2 learning, but as a coherent account of a particular approach to the issue. -- Leila Ranta in Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development 23:5, 2002

Synopsis

This text examines different perspectives on the role that interaction plays in second language acquisition. In addition the effects of language aptitude on input processing are considered, and the contribution that interaction makes to the acquisition of grammatical knowledge is discussed.

Edition details

• Publisher: John Benjamins Publishing Co
• Publication date: 1999
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 9027241252
• ISBN 13: 9789027241252
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 295