SEL2237 : Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
SEL2237 : Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
- Offered for Year: 2024/25
- Module Leader(s): Dr Sujeewa Hettiarachchi
- Owning School: English Lit, Language & Linguistics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SEL1027 | Introduction to the Structure of Language 1: Phonetics, Phonology & Morphology |
Pre Requisite Comment
N/A
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
To provide students with an introduction to the main theories, questions, methods of investigation and discoveries in second language acquisition. To prepare students for independent research projects in second language acquisition.
Outline Of Syllabus
Theoretical perspectives on second language acquisition
The empirical study of interlanguage
L1 influence
Acquisition of (morpho-)syntax & phonology
The critical period
Individual differences
Social context
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
Particular focus will be given to understanding of the following issues:
-acquisition in several domains (morphosyntax/syntax and phonology)
-developmental sequences
-similarities and differences between first and second language acquisition
-the role of the first language in the second language acquisition process
-the role played by universals
-the role played by other factors such as instruction and social context
Intended Skill Outcomes
- critical thinking
- problem solving
- take notes effectively, in workshops and lectures and from journal articles and book chapters
- construct a coherent argument based on a range of evidence
- group work
- tabulation and analysis of second language acquisition data
- visual presentation of results
- written expression
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 47 | 1:00 | 47:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 60 | 1:00 | 60:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 60 | 1:00 | 60:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SEL8701 | Foundations in Second Language Acquisition |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
The lectures will present and explain theoretical frameworks, methodologies, and empirical discoveries, while the small group teaching will a) reinforce the lectures, b) provide students with opportunities to participate in classroom debates based on assigned readings, and c) support students in analysing (in smaller teams) a small dataset of second language acquisition data. Students will be expected to read assigned material in advance of the lectures and seminars. Private study time will be devoted to preparatory reading for both lectures and seminars.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Prob solv exercises | 2 | M | 50 | 2000-word problem-solving exercise |
| Essay | 2 | A | 50 | 2000-word essay |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The PROBLEM-SOLVING EXERCISE tests students’ skills in data analysis and interpretation that they will have acquired and practised during seminars.
The ESSAY tests students’ critical and writing skills. Students use the acquired critical skills to explore a topic in Second Language Acquisition and write up their argumentation as a critical essay.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SEL2237's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- SEL2237's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
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Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2024 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Module information for the 2025/26 entry will be published here in early-April 2025. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.