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 | |
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
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 47 | 1:00 | 47:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 22 | 1:00 | 22:00 | 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.
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.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SEL2237's Timetable