This course is an introduction to theory, research, and practical aspects of teaching English as a second language. The course provides an overview of major issues in second language acquisition and classroom practice, as well as related topics in linguistics, psychology, sociology, and education. Topics include: the relationship between first and second language acquisition; age as a factor in language learning; contrastive analysis, error analysis, and performance analysis; sociolinguistics and discourse analysis in SLA; affective variables; language policy; needs analysis and syllabus development; and current theories of second language acquisition.

This course is required for students enrolled in the MATESOL Program.