Introducing Second Language Acquisition: Perspectives and Practices by Kirsten M. Hummel

Cambridge Introductions to Language and Linguistics

by Kirsten M. Hummel

Introducing Second Language Perspectives and Practices represents a clear and concise introduction to the main concepts, issues, and debates in second language acquisition studies aimed specifically at undergraduates encountering the topic for the first time.

Genres: Linguistics, Nonfiction, Language

Paperback

First published January 1, 2013

Reviews

[Alie · Rating 2 out of 5]

I’m finally done reading this book! I needed it for my Language Acquisition class, and let’s say that it was not fun to read. The material is interesting, but the way it is presented isn’t. It only listed theories without actually bringing something new to the table, and I felt lost throughout half of this book. I won’t miss it.

[CAITLIN · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very informative textbook!

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Pretty decent primer for second language acquisition. I appreciated the even handed approach.

[Leda · Rating 3 out of 5]

As someone who isn't a fan or admirer of language acquisition this book was, to say the least, unsatisfactory to me. That being said, if you enjoy language acquisition you may like it.

Book-wise my main criticism of its explanations would be its incessant use of abbreviations. While I am aware this is common in linguistics, here (because so many abbreviated terms get thrown around (some from previous chapters)) it gets annoying. at least it did for me when previous abbreviations are used from previous chapters without reminders (some abbreviations do btw have these but not enough).

[Lea Dokter · Rating 2 out of 5]

On one hand, I find this topic very interesting and really liked delving into it. This book, however, tends to get hung up on just listing theories, hypotheses and research, not giving conclusive answers or even conclusions in general. I understand this is (developing) science and hard answers aren't always possible, but the way this book was written didn't make for a comfortable read.