Second Language Aquisition - Einzelansicht

This Masters course provides an overview of current issues and controversies in second language (L2) acquisition research, focusing on formal linguistic approaches to the L2 acquisition of syntax. Specific questions to be addressed include: What are the similarities and differences between child first language (L1) and adult L2 acquisition of grammar? How can formal linguistic theory inform L2 acquisition research? What aspects of grammar are particularly difficult for L2 learners to acquire, and why? What is special about L3 acquisition? How and to what extent do properties of learners’ prior language(s) influence the development of L2/L3 grammatical competence?

This course presupposes a solid grounding in grammatical theory and description.