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10 Things You'll Learn in an Introductory Course to Applied Linguistics.

An introduction to applied linguistics course typically covers the following topics:

  • The history and development of Applied Linguistics

  • The relationship between applied linguistics and other fields, such as linguistics, psychology, and education

  • The major areas of applied linguistics, such as second language acquisition, bilingualism, language teaching and learning, language assessment, language policy and planning, discourse analysis, sociolinguistics, psycholinguistics, forensic linguistics, and translation and interpreting

  • The methods and techniques used in applied linguistics research

  • The ethical considerations involved in applied linguistics research and practice

In addition to these core topics, a course of introduction to applied linguistics may also cover specific topics related to the instructor's research interests or the needs of the students in the course.

Here are some examples of specific topics that may be covered in an introduction to applied linguistics course:

  • The role of motivation in second language acquisition

  • The effects of bilingualism on cognitive development

  • The use of technology in language teaching

  • The development of language standards

  • The role of language in social identity

  • The analysis of discourse in different contexts

  • The relationship between language and thought

  • The application of linguistics to legal problems

  • The translation of literary texts

The specific topics covered in a course of introduction to applied linguistics will vary depending on the instructor and the institution. However, all courses in this area will provide students with a foundation in the field and introduce them to the different ways that linguistics can be applied to real-world problems.

If you are interested in learning more about applied linguistics, I encourage you to take a course in this area. It is a fascinating and rewarding field that can help you make a difference in the world.


Here are some helpful tools and resources for an introductory course to applied linguistics:

  • Coursebooks: There are many coursebooks available for introductory courses in applied linguistics. These books typically cover the core topics in the field and provide students with exercises and activities to help them learn the material. Some popular coursebooks include:

  • An Introduction to Applied Linguistics by Ronald Carter and Michael McCarthy

  • Applied Linguistics: An Introduction by Alan Davies and Catherine Elder

  • The Routledge Handbook of Applied Linguistics by Christopher N. Candlin and David R. Hall


  • Journals: There are many journals that publish research in applied linguistics. These journals can be a great resource for finding up-to-date information on the field. Some popular journals include:

  • Applied Linguistics

  • Language Learning

  • The Modern Language Journal

  • The International Journal of Bilingualism

  • The Journal of Language and Social Psychology


  • Websites: There are many websites that offer information about applied linguistics. These websites can be a great resource for finding news, articles, and other resources on the field. Some popular websites include:

  • The Applied Linguistics Association of America

  • The Center for Applied Linguistics

  • The British Association for Applied Linguistics

  • The European Association for Applied Linguistics

  • The International Association of Applied Linguistics


  • Online courses: There are also many online courses available in applied linguistics. These courses can be a great way to learn about the field at your own pace. Some popular online courses include:

  • Introduction to Applied Linguistics by Coursera

  • Applied Linguistics by edX

  • Applied Linguistics by Udemy


  • Research papers: Reading research papers is a great way to learn about the latest research in applied linguistics. You can find research papers in journals, online databases, and other academic resources.

  • Conferences and workshops: Attending conferences and workshops is a great way to learn about the latest research in applied linguistics and network with other professionals in the field.

  • Applied linguistics communities: There are many online and offline communities for applied linguists. These communities can be a great way to ask questions, get help, and connect with other people who are interested in the field.

These are just a few of the many tools and resources that can be helpful for an introductory course to applied linguistics. The best resources for you will depend on your learning style and interests. I encourage you to explore the different resources available and find the ones that work best for you.

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