The Social Turn in Second Language Acquisition

The Social Turn in Second Language Acquisition examines a shift in SLA research from cognitive approaches toward more socially-oriented frameworks. Block analyzes developments in the field since the 1990s, documenting how researchers have expanded their focus beyond mental processes to include social contexts and identities. The book presents key theories and methodologies that emerged during this paradigm shift, including sociocultural theory, language socialization, and poststructuralist approaches. Through analysis of research studies and theoretical frameworks, Block demonstrates how these social perspectives have influenced understanding of language learning. Block establishes connections between SLA research and broader developments in social theory, linguistics, and education. The text includes critiques of both traditional cognitive approaches and newer social orientations while acknowledging valuable contributions from multiple perspectives. This book captures a significant evolution in how researchers conceptualize the relationship between language learners and their social environments. The examination of this theoretical shift provides insight into fundamental questions about how humans acquire additional languages.

Readers describe this academic text as a detailed critique of cognitive approaches to SLA research, arguing for more focus on social factors. Many point out its thorough analysis of social context in language learning. Likes: - Clear breakdown of sociocultural theory in SLA - Strong case studies and examples - Balanced presentation of different theoretical perspectives - Comprehensive reference list Dislikes: - Dense academic writing style - Some repetition in arguments - Limited practical classroom applications - Focus mainly on theory rather than methodology Reviews/Ratings: Goodreads: 3.8/5 (12 ratings) Amazon: 4/5 (6 ratings) Google Books: No ratings available One PhD student reviewer noted: "Block effectively challenges the dominance of cognitive SLA but could offer more concrete teaching implications." A language teacher commented: "Important theoretical foundation but needs more real-world examples." Reviews emphasize its value for researchers and graduate students rather than language teachers seeking practical guidance.

Language Policy in Schools by Elana Shohamy Examines how institutional policies shape second language learning through a social-political lens.

Identity and Language Learning by Bonny Norton Connects language acquisition to power relations, identity formation, and social contexts through case studies of immigrant language learners.

The Multilingual Subject by Claire Kramsch Investigates the relationship between language learning and subjectivity through a sociocultural theoretical framework.

Language and Identity by John Edwards Explores the interconnections between language learning, social identity, and cultural belonging in multilingual contexts.

The Multilingual Turn by Stephen May Presents research on how multilingualism influences language acquisition within social and educational environments.

🌟 David Block draws extensively on Pierre Bourdieu's sociological concepts, particularly "habitus," to analyze how social environments shape language learning 📚 The book marked a significant shift in SLA research by challenging the dominant cognitive approaches of the 1980s and 1990s 🌍 Block's work highlights how globalization and transnational migration have fundamentally changed the context of second language acquisition 💭 The author critiques traditional SLA research for treating learners as abstract entities rather than real people with complex social identities 🔄 The book demonstrates how power relations, gender, race, and social class significantly impact language learning success - factors previously overlooked in mainstream SLA research