The Cambridge Introduction to Applied Linguistics

A comprehensive and up-to-date textbook that brings applied linguistics alive while preparing students for the field with hands-on practice.

An accessible introduction to applied linguistics for upper-level students with no background in the field. Concepts are presented through real-world examples, personal stories from the authors, and applied activities, equipping students from all disciplines with the tools for putting their theoretical knowledge into practice.Written by a global team, this up-to-date introduction to applied linguistics helps students learn what it's like to do applied linguistics, and not just read about theoretical concepts. First, it provides frameworks for understanding both the shared characteristics of work in applied linguistics and the diversity of topics and analyses. Each chapter then highlights a topic area, covering key concepts, a specific project undertaken by the authors, and their personal reflections on entering the field. Hands-on analysis and other application activities also encourage students to test different skills related to each chapter. Finally, students are introduced to the tools they need to continue in applied linguistics: how to read and write empirical research, how to evaluate primary literature, and starting points for expanding their interest in specific subject areas. The authors provide examples from different geographical regions and languages to engage an international audience. At the same time, multilingualism, interdisciplinarity, and technology are integrated as themes within the text to reflect how these areas are now interwoven throughout applied linguistics.