1. Second language acquisition research: an overview -- 2. Age and second language acquisition -- 3. Psychological factors and second language acquisition -- 4. The development of a second language -- 5. Variability in learner language -- 6. The role of the first language -- 7. Input and interaction: the cognitive-interactionist perspective -- 8. Cognitive aspects of second language acquisition -- 9. Social aspects of second language acquisition -- 10. The role of explicit instruction -- 11. The role of implicit instruction -- 12. Understanding and applying second language acquisition --

In the 30 years since Rod Ellis first published the award-winning Understanding second language acquisition, it has become a classic text. This new, fully updated edition continues to provide an authoritative and highly readable introduction to key areas of theory and research in second language acquisition. Ellis presents a comprehensive overview of the different theories in this field and examines critical reactions to them. The book reflects recent trends in looking at cognitive and social aspects of second language acquisition, as well as examining the roles played by implicit and explicit instruction in language learning