Critically Approaching Second Language Acquisition: A Review of the Book Second Language Acquisition: An Introductory Course by Gass and Selinker
Keywords:
Second Language Acquisition, TESOL, Book Review, Content AnalysisAbstract
Second Language Acquisition (SLA) serves as a central foundation for the development of theory and practice in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL). This article provides a critical review of Second Language Acquisition: An Introductory Course by Susan M. Gass and Larry Selinker, a seminal text widely recognized in the field. Employing a qualitative content analysis, the review examines the book’s structure, thematic coverage, and the applicability of its theoretical insights to contemporary language teaching. The analysis highlights that the book offers a comprehensive overview of major SLA theories while establishing strong connections to classroom practice and pedagogical implications. Nonetheless, certain sections require recontextualization to address emerging challenges in digitalized and multicultural learning environments. The article concludes by recommending the reflective and critical use of this book in teacher education, curriculum development, and applied linguistics research
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