Program Overview

Introduction to APPL8250 Second Language Acquisition

APPL8250 Second Language Acquisition is a unit offered by Macquarie University, focusing on the study of second and foreign language acquisition in both instructed and naturalistic settings.

General Information

• Unit Convenor and Lecturer: Peter Roger
• Credit points: 10
• Prerequisites: Admission to GradCert TESOL or MAppLingTESOL or MTransInterMAppLingTESOL or MEd
• Unit description: This unit explores various approaches to the study of second and foreign language acquisition, considering factors that influence language learning and the characteristics of learner language.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this unit, students will be able to:

• Explain key factors influencing second and foreign language acquisition
• Analyse written and spoken learner language from multiple perspectives
• Communicate knowledge of current research findings in second language acquisition to a professional audience
• Apply knowledge of second language acquisition research to relevant language learning contexts

Assessment Tasks

• Online key concepts quiz (20%): Multiple choice and short answer questions
• Critical review (30%): A guided critical commentary on scholarly journal articles
• Making second language acquisition research accessible (50%): An informative multimedia presentation on an area of second language acquisition research

Delivery and Resources

• The unit is delivered through a weekly two-hour lecture-seminar on campus, livestreamed and recorded on Echo360.
• Essential to attend weekly classes or engage with class recordings.
• Readings accompany topics studied, available on the Leganto block on the APPL8250 iLearn site.

Unit Schedule

The unit schedule includes topics such as:

• Approaches to studying second language acquisition
• The role of age in second language acquisition
• The role of the first language in second language acquisition
• Learner language, errors, and error analysis
• Developmental patterns in learner language
• Motivation in second and foreign language learning
• Language learning strategies and self-regulation
• Acquisition of vocabulary in a second language
• Acquisition of second language pragmatics
• The role of formal instruction in second language acquisition
• Foreign language anxiety and aptitude for language learning

Policies and Procedures

Macquarie University policies and procedures are accessible from Policy Central, including:

• Academic Appeals Policy
• Academic Integrity Policy
• Academic Progression Policy
• Assessment Policy
• Fitness to Practice Procedure
• Assessment Procedure
• Complaints Resolution Procedure for Students and Members of the Public
• Special Consideration Policy

Professionalism and Inclusion

• Social inclusion at Macquarie University aims to provide opportunities for all to study and participate in campus life.
• Students are expected to contribute to an inclusive culture and practice, respecting others and avoiding discrimination or harassment.
• Professionalism is a key capability, including attending small group interactive sessions, respecting peers, and minimizing distractions during learning activities.