Children's Additional Language Learning in Instructional Settings - (Early Language Learning in School Contexts) by Yuko Goto Butler

About the Book

This book provides an overview of additional language learning development and pedagogy among young children who are learning a language in addition to their home language(s). It integrates second language development theories and research findings with practice and will be invaluable to all those working with young language learners.

Book Synopsis

This book provides the first comprehensive overview of young children's language learning in pre-primary and primary education. It collates research to date on language development and pedagogy among children learning a language in addition to their home language(s) in instructional settings, providing readers with a thorough understanding of the topic and directions for further study. The book promotes a learner-centered approach to research and teaching and encourages critical reflection on how best to conduct research among children. It recognizes the substantial diversity of young language learning experiences and pays attention to individual differences and variability in children's language development, embracing an ecological perspective sensitive to contextual factors. Closing the gap between research and practice, each chapter opens with pedagogical or policy-related questions, explores relevant theories and research findings from instructed second language acquisition, and offers discussion questions and recommended reading for further reflection and study. This will be invaluable reading for all those who are undertaking research and working with young language learners.

Review Quotes

In this veritable tour de force, Yuko Goto Butler presents an all-embracing, compelling overview of children's additional language development. In her characteristically meticulous style, she connects research to pedagogy, imparts invaluable insights, advocates for a child-centered approach to research and considers multilingualism, diversity, and variability in children's language development. This is an essential resource for academic courses, challenging us all to boldly go where no one has gone before!-- "Sandie Mourão, Nova University of Lisbon, Portugal"

This insightful book bridges theory and practice to explore how children learn additional languages in instructional settings. With a learner-centred approach, it champions multilingualism, diversity, and ecological perspectives - essential reading for educators, researchers, and policymakers committed to understanding and supporting language development in young learners.-- "Victoria A. Murphy, University of Oxford, UK"

This volume offers a comprehensible and insightful analysis of key factors shaping children's additional language learning in instructional settings. With its thoughtful exploration of children's oral and written development, the role of instruction, affective and social factors as well as digital technology, the volume provides invaluable guidance for researchers and educators. A must-read for anyone devoted to fostering children's success in additional language learning.-- "María del Pilar García Mayo, University of the Basque Country, Spain"

About the Author

Yuko Goto Butler is a Professor of Educational Linguistics and Director of the Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Program in the Graduate School of Education at the University of Pennsylvania, USA. Her research focuses on young language learners, language assessment and technology in language teaching.