SEL8690 : Advanced Topics in Second Language Acquisition
SEL8690 : Advanced Topics in Second Language Acquisition
- Offered for Year: 2025/26
- Module Leader(s): Dr Sujeewa Hettiarachchi
- Owning School: English Lit, Language & Linguistics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
Your programme is made up of credits, the total differs on programme to programme.
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 20 |
| ECTS Credits: | 10.0 |
| European Credit Transfer System | |
Pre-requisite
Modules you must have done previously to study this module
Pre Requisite Comment
Some foundation in Second Language Acquisition, syntax and phonology required. If in doubt, please consult the DPD or module leader.
Co-Requisite
Modules you need to take at the same time
Co Requisite Comment
N/A
Aims
This module advances students’ understanding of key aspects and theories of Second Language Acquisition (SLA), with a primary focus on cognitive and generative approaches. It examines second language development across core linguistic domains—phonology, morpho-syntax, semantics, and the lexicon—by exploring how universals, cognitive mechanisms, and external influences interact in shaping the acquisition process. Students will acquire advanced knowledge of cognitive and generative SLA theories and develop advanced skills in analysing second language data.
Outline Of Syllabus
This module will cover the following topics:
a) Cognitive and generative theories of SLA
b) Instructed versus uninstructed second language learning
c) First-language transfer and its impact on second language acquisition
d) Second language development across core linguistic domains: phonology, morpho-syntax, semantics, and the lexicon
e) Collecting, analysing, and interpreting second language data
Learning Outcomes
Intended Knowledge Outcomes
• Explain the main cognitive and generative theories of SLA and their interactions.
• Critically evaluate the strengths and limitations of key theories of SLA.
• Examine second language acquisition across core linguistic domains: phonology, morpho-syntax, semantics, and the lexicon.
• Evaluate second language acquisition from cognitive, generative, and psychological perspectives.
• Design and conduct empirical investigations to collect, analyze, and interpret L2 data.
Intended Skill Outcomes
• Critical reading and analysis skills
• Research design and planning skills
• Empirical data collection, analysis, and interpretation skills
• Oral and written communication, argumentation, and presentation skills
Teaching Methods
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 1 | 50:00 | 50:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 11 | 2:00 | 22:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Directed research and reading | 1 | 49:00 | 49:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Small group teaching | 11 | 1:00 | 11:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Project work | 1 | 20:00 | 20:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Independent study | 1 | 48:00 | 48:00 | N/A |
| Total | 200:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| SEL3430 | Advanced Second Language Acquisition |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
LECTURES are used, primarily, to impart information and provide an overall coherence for the module. SMALL GROUP TEACHING is used to support and consolidate students’ understanding of their guided independent study and for the design of their research assignments. GUIDED INDEPENDENT STUDY is used for the preparation of seminar exercises as well as for the preparation and completion of assignments.
Reading Lists
Assessment Methods
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exercise | 2 | A | 70 | 2,500-words |
| Essay | 2 | M | 30 | 1500-words |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
The essay and written exercise will test students' critical reading, analytical, presentation and argumentation skills.
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- SEL8690's Timetable
Past Exam Papers
- Exam Papers Online : www.ncl.ac.uk/exam.papers/
- SEL8690's past Exam Papers
General Notes
N/A
Welcome to Newcastle University Module Catalogue
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Disclaimer
The information contained within the Module Catalogue relates to the 2025 academic year.
In accordance with University Terms and Conditions, the University makes all reasonable efforts to deliver the modules as described.
Modules may be amended on an annual basis to take account of changing staff expertise, developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, staffing changes, and student feedback. Module information for the 2026/27 entry will be published here in early-April 2026. Queries about information in the Module Catalogue should in the first instance be addressed to your School Office.