Solving Language Problems

Although Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) is a popular teaching method, research on CLIL has nearly exclusively focused on aspects of language learning. Besides that, we are still lacking any cognitively well-grounded theory about the special features of contexts in which the focus is on content learning, but in which a foreign language is used as the medium of communicating information. This book re-examines the basis for CLIL from a cognitive perspective and investigates how the use of a foreign language as a working language influences the processing of content. It summarizes findings from cognitive psychology on thinking, problem solving and conceptual processing, and integrates them with models of language-specific mental activities such as speech processing and text composition. This provides a theoretically well-grounded basis for the understanding of the special features of CLIL, and promotes a Cognitive Linguistic perspective on CLIL pedagogy. The theoretical considerations form the basis for an empirical study that offers the first insights into what CLIL learners actually do when they solve content-focused tasks while using an L2. Through spontaneous verbalization of thought, detailed verbal protocols were elicited and analysed into language and content focused cognitive processes. The analysis shows that both language and conceptual thought interact closely and that a focus on language in general has positive effects on the processing of semantic content; the use of an L2 as working language can enhance this effect. Additionally, the study offers a thorough reflection and new perspectives on verbal protocols as research tools, in particular in L2 contexts.

The field of technical communication is rapidly expanding in both the academic world and the private sector, yet a problematic divide remains between theory and practice. Here Stuart A. Selber and Johndan Johnson-Eilola, both respected scholars and teachers of technical communication, effectively bridge that gap. Solving Problems in Technical Communication collects the latest research and theory in the field and applies it to real-world problems faced by practitioners—problems involving ethics, intercultural communication, new media, and other areas that determine the boundaries of the discipline. The book is structured in four parts, offering an overview of the field, situating it historically and culturally, reviewing various theoretical approaches to technical communication, and examining how the field can be advanced by drawing on diverse perspectives. Timely, informed, and practical, Solving Problems in Technical Communication will be an essential tool for undergraduates and graduate students as they begin the transition from classroom to career.

The combination of a clearly written survey of the key areas in linguistics, together with analysis of recent problem-based developments in the field, make this book the ideal introduction to applied linguistic studies. There is also a detailed bibliography and a terminological index. Subjects covered: - semantics - grammar - phonetics and phonology - discourse - psycholinguistics - sociolinguistics - language teaching and testing - lexicography - computers in applied linguistics This book will be useful to undergraduates, and their professors, in the field of linguistics and applied linguistics. It also provides a straightforward guide to the subject for postgraduates studying linguistics as part of courses in English and modern languages; psychology; lexicography; and computer science.

Although Content and Language Integrated Learning (CLIL) is a popular teaching method, research on CLIL has nearly exclusively focused on aspects of language learning. Besides that, we are still lacking any cognitively well-grounded theory about the special features of contexts in which the focus is on content learning, but in which a foreign language is used as the medium of communicating information. This book re-examines the basis for CLIL from a cognitive perspective and investigates how the use of a foreign language as a working language influences the processing of content. It summarizes findings from cognitive psychology on thinking, problem solving and conceptual processing, and integrates them with models of language-specific mental activities such as speech processing and text composition. This provides a theoretically well-grounded basis for the understanding of the special features of CLIL, and promotes a Cognitive Linguistic perspective on CLIL pedagogy. The theoretical considerations form the basis for an empirical study that offers the first insights into what CLIL learners actually do when they solve content-focused tasks while using an L2. Through spontaneous verbalization of thought, detailed verbal protocols were elicited and analysed into language and content focused cognitive processes. The analysis shows that both language and conceptual thought interact closely and that a focus on language in general has positive effects on the processing of semantic content; the use of an L2 as working language can enhance this effect. Additionally, the study offers a thorough reflection and new perspectives on verbal protocols as research tools, in particular in L2 contexts.

Offering a solid, research-based approach along with sound practical advice, this book equips you with the skills you need to analyse your own contexts and develop your practice, whether through formal study or alone. Badger explores teaching English as a problem-solving activity addressing three fundamental questions: what aspect of language do students needs to learn, how do they learn it, and how can teachers support this learning. This new edition includes updated references, a chapter on pragmatics, coverage of concepts such as translanguaging, CLIL, EMI, English as a lingua franca and sections on digital learning. Topics covered include: · Psychological and social learning processes · TESOL teaching methods and approaches · Lesson planning and classroom management · English teacher professional development The book also includes chapter summaries, activities for students and key readings recommendations, and online resources such as video case studies, additional exercises and multiple choice quizzes to consolidate learning. The book is ideal for both trainee and practicing teachers who want to develop their practice.