Debates in Modern Languages Education offers a comprehensive introduction and synthesis of the major themes and research evidence in language learning and teaching today, providing an up-to-date, authoritative review of traditional and contemporary issues in language teaching.
With chapters by leading experts in the field, thematic sections explore and consider:
the importance of a wide range of different knowledge bases and skills for effective teaching
how to become expert practitioners
approaches to teaching with reference to relevant theories, complex constructs, and empirical research
the innovations and ideas that shape and will shape the discipline for the next decade.
Each thought-provoking chapter is supported by reference to further reading and additional material to encourage deeper exploration which will help the reader to fully engage in the debates presented. This book is a valuable resource for any student or practising teacher engaged in initial teacher education, continuing professional development and Masters level study.
Introduction Part I: Overview 1. Languages Over the Past 40 Years: Does history repeat itself? 2. Cognitive Processing and Foreign Language Use 3. Evidence Informed Practice as an Effective Approach to Teacher Development Part II: Issues in the Classroom 4. Listening and Understanding 5. Speaking Interactively 6. Developing Reading and Decoding in the MFL Classroom 7. Learning and Teaching Writing in the FL Classroom: Fostering writing-to-learn approaches 8. Grammar: The never ending great debate 9. Vocabulary and Formulaic Language: Where to begin? 10. Cultural Awareness: Should it be taught, can it be taught? 11. Developments in Formative Assessment: A retrograde step for teaching and learning Making Progress in Languages: Issues around transition 12. The Many Faces of Motivation 13. Learning Strategies, Autonomy and Self-Regulated Learning Part III: Educational Debates 14. Making the Case for the Future of Languages 15. Creative Practice in the Languages Classroom 16. Content Language Integrated Learning: Has its time come? 17. Managing Learners' Needs: Policy, research and practice 18. A New Era for Primary Languages
