An Introduction to Second Language Acquisition Research by Diane Larsen-Freeman & Michael H. Long

I read An Introduction to Second Language Acquisition Research a number of years ago while I was studying for my Master's in TESOL, and picked it up again only recently in order to review it. I had no recollection of it being a good read, but it's actually quite good. It covers just about everything that the applied linguist needs to know, including research methodology, data collection, modern theories of second language acquisition together with their historical development, learner variables and their relation to success or failure, and an excellent bibliography for those who would like to read more. I think that although this book claims that its intended audience needs no prior knowledge of SLA, from my personal experience, I would contest that it takes a few years for everything to sink in! I recommend this book only if you have been involved in linguistics for a number of years, or are an exceptionally keen or smart grad student. If you are considering doing your own research, then this book is also a very worthwhile read.

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