Trawinski, M. 2005. An Outline of Second Language Acquisition Theories. Wydawnictwo Naukowe Akademii Pedagogicznej: Krakow. ISBN 83-7271-335-9
The book provides a clear and concise description of current views on the theories of Second Language Acquisition (SLA). Most probably an abridged publication of a doctoral dissertation. From the point of view of the student this is an ideal starting start for further library research, as the book provides a sound bibliography and is amply annotated in the main text.
A must read for anyone writing a thesis in SLA, teaching English as a FL (Foreign Language) or SL (Second Language).
The book is now out of print, hence pdf-ed as scans of the pages.
Chapter one lists major approaches to language acquisition: behavioural, nativist, cognitive and social interactionist.
Chapter two deals with the biological foundations of language learning
Chapter three focuses on individual learner differences
Chapter four looks ath the learner language
Chapter five examines the role of input in SLA
Chapter six is an account of various SLA models
Shortish, concise, probably a desperate attemt to gain recognition in the academic world before attempting professorship, yet for a BA and MA student just about enough to get by an exam in SLA.
Highly recommended for students, though scope-wise leaves a lot to be desired.
