Second Language Learning Theories

By Emma Marsden, Rosamond Mitchell, Florence Myles

Book Overview

Written by a team of leading experts working in different SLA specialisms, this fifth edition is a clear and concise introduction to the main theories of second language acquisition (SLA) from multiple perspectives, comprehensively updated to reflect the latest developments in SLA research.

The book covers all the main theoretical perspectives currently active in SLA and sets each chapter within a broader framework. Each chapter examines the claims and scope of each theory and how each views language, the learner and the acquisition process, supplemented by summaries of key studies and data examples from a variety of languages. Chapters end with an evaluative summary of the theories discussed. Key features to this fifth edition include updated accounts of cognitive approaches to second language (L2) learning, the implications of advances in generative linguistics and the "social turn" in L2 research, with re-worked chapters on functional, sociocultural and sociolinguistic perspectives, and an entirely new chapter on individual differences, in addition to updated examples using new studies.

Second Language Learning Theories continues to be an essential resource for graduate students in second language acquisition.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1032814519
• ISBN13: 9781032814513
• Release Date: April 2026
• Publisher: Routledge
• Length: 432 Pages
• Weight: 0.99 lbs.

Customer Reviews

Very helpful

This is a very helpful introductory book related to SLL theories. It's a must-read for all those whose work/study is related to the field. The authors successfully compile an enormous amount of information regarding the subject.

The author has done the hard work for you!

The author brilliantly collates what must amount to a seemingly infinite amount of material. Terms are clearly explained and chapters follow a coherent path, allbeit to a conclusion (minus one star) that wasn't expected... but the journey was well worth it! Short case studies and examples are easy to skip over but good to see them. The content is deep enough for a University audience and at a reasonable length to link to practical applications as well as leave your mind tinkering. It is a first-time theoretical read and a stepping-stone to broader material as it impartially outlines the arguments for and against each theory. In the end you are forced to decide for yourself! For the moment I have made my mind up on the theoretical side - how about you? In hindsight the decision to get this title was very easy.

The big picture

As a student in TESOL, I appreciate this book for giving me a good view of the most important theories in our field. We are so apt to focus and not see the "other stuff". This book is comprehensive easy to understand and clear. A must to all who wonder about the role of functionalist, pragmatic, cognitive, social, UG theories and more are surveyed in a concise and clear fashion. A must to all who do not have an understanding of the theories in our field.