'… combines great clarity of exposition, a focus on the linguistics of second language acquisition, and an effort to integrate diverse theoretical perspectives into a complex understanding of second language acquisition as a whole - all in less than 300 pages. While billed as a textbook for undergraduates, this text could easily be used in graduate-level introductory courses in second language acquisition. The chapter-ending discussion questions and activities, as well as a handy glossary of terms, make this more than just a textbook, however: it provides many of the materials needed to design an introductory course in the subject.' Dwight Atkinson, University of Arizona

Providing a solid foundation in second language acquisition, this book has become the leading introduction to the subject for students of linguistics, psychology and education, and trainee language teachers. Now in its third edition, the textbook offers comprehensive coverage of fundamental concepts, including second language acquisition (SLA) in adults and children, in formal and informal learning contexts, and in diverse socio-cultural settings, and takes an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging students to consider SLA from linguistic, psychological and social perspectives. Each chapter contains a list of key terms, a summary, and a range of graded exercises suitable for self-testing and class discussion. The third edition has been revised throughout, and features new material on the practical aspects of teaching language, along with updated online resources, including new classroom activities to accompany each chapter, as well as updated references and further reading suggestions.