013104 Language and Power

This subject provides a framework for studying first and second language development, with particular emphasis on social and functional perspectives on language learning. In doing so, it draws out implications for classroom pedagogical practices. The subject offers a survey of the principal topics currently addressed in the study of second language acquisition, and of the major research methods and paradigms used in such studies. Other significant components of the subject include critical observation; description and analysis of second language learners and their language performance; the social and psychological aspects of second language learning situations; and the special characteristics of learner language.