Modern Languages and Linguistics

Enam Al-Wer

In Understanding Sociolinguistics, the author focuses on language variation and change, traditionally the core elements of sociolinguistic study. This textbook provides a step-by-step introduction to the analytical framework and methodology of sociolinguistics and presents the discipline as an approach to doing linguistics, while many texts in this area simply provide an overview of the theory without a corresponding emphasis on the practice of sociolinguistics. The book assumes no previous knowledge of linguistics and linguistic analysis.
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Daniela Isac and Charles Reiss

I-Language introduces the uninitiated to linguistics as cognitive science. In an engaging, down-to-earth style Daniela Isac and Charles Reiss give a crystal-clear demonstration of the application of the scientific method in linguistic theory. (Read more)

Vivian Cook

The fourth edition of this classic textbook has been revised to reflect recent developments in language teaching and learning yet retains the basic structure and approach so popular with its readers. Teaching and learning content has been updated, particularly taking into account the rise of task-based learning, Conversational Analysis and social models of second language acquisition, changes in national syllabuses and examinations and the increasing controversy over the role of the native speaker target. Each chapter has been revised to stand alone, enabling the text to be taught and studied out of sequence if preferred. A set of focussing questions has also been added to each and further reading sections have been updated. In addition, icons appear throughout the text signalling where extra information - summaries, data, lecture notes, test batteries and more - can be found on the author's accompanying website. Second Language Learning and Language Teaching remains the essential textbook for all student teachers of modern languages and TESOL as well as applied linguistics.
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Geert Booij

Assuming no prior knowledge of linguistics, Understanding Syntax discusses and illustrates all the major terms and concepts essential to the study of sentence structure in the world's languages. 'Noun' and 'verb' are explained, and the properties of these categories are discussed. The reader discovers what a finite verb is, what 'first person singular' means and what relative clauses look like. Concepts such as 'subject', 'object', 'gender', 'case', and 'subordination' are introduced and exemplified.
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