In this paper, we argue that second language (L2) reading research, which has been informed by studies involving first language (L1) alphabetic English reading, may be less relevant to L2 readers with non-alphabetic reading backgrounds, such as Chinese readers with an L1 logographic (Chinese character) learning history. We provide both…

Describes the workings of one cognitive model for the development of literary knowledge. The model derives from current discussions of the role of conscious processes in language learning. (Author/VWL)

Examines key principles of critical language awareness with reference to a class on critical reading that was taught to advanced foreign language learners. Argues that critical language awareness needs to be located within critical pedagogy, and that critical pedagogy is conceptualized around three major principles: teaching as emancipatory,…

Reviews the nature of processing instruction (PI) and the research that has been conducted on it since 1993. Concludes that Batstone's (2002a) analysis and critique of PI is unfounded and that PI captures his given-to-new principle via the feedback learners get during instruction. (Author/VWL)

Demonstrates the need for a more democratic and pluralist model of reader that may take into account cultural and linguistic differences. Shows why interpretations produced by student readers may be considered as valid as those of critics or teachers if the students ground their response on an explicit account of the language patterning.…

Examines the characteristics of the teaching and learning of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) in secondary schools. Seeks to define language awareness and its role in the context of EFL. Discusses what literature can offer to enhance language awareness. Offers examples of tasks that identify and illustrate aspects of language awareness in a…

Presents a case in point to illustrate the use of subject-related artistic manifestations as an effective strategy to stimulate critical reading in English-as-a-Foreign-Language students of English literature. Suggests a step-by-step procedure that enables students to appropriate a poem without the usual over-deference toward second language in…

Reassesses the role of literature in the curriculum, in light of recent debates over what to include in the literary canon. Proposes the emergence of a new discipline, Literary Awareness, and shows how it can be beneficial to students of English as a Foreign Language at the tertiary level. Contains references. (MDM)

Seeks to trace the main lines of the history of the case for awareness of language or knowledge about language in the curriculum. Suggests there is an urgent need for all strands of work in language awareness and knowledge about language, and different approaches of teachers of English and foreign languages, to be coordinated and rigorously…

Discusses a conceptual framework outlining what is known about language development and metalinguistics, and considers ways in which this may provide a reference framework to guide the work of the various committees responsible for developing the language curriculum. The example of the curriculum in Ireland is used to explore the practical…

Reexamines the interface between foreign language study and language awareness (LA) in the light of developments since LA was first proposed 25 years ago. (Author/VWL)

Teaching materials for university-level second language learners were created with the aim of raising the learners' awareness of the rhetorical organization and salient linguistic features of essays. The teaching method relied heavily on explicit instruction and essential metalanguage. Concludes that explicit genre-based instruction with the…

Emphasizes the goal-directedness of activity in relation to the intentionality of those involved, both individually and collectively, and with regard to sociohistorical and sociocultural contexts. Adapts and applies previous research to investigate the retention of new second language vocabulary. The study was carried out in a third semester…

Discusses key issues of late modern society that help make a case for critical awareness of discourse: the relationship between discourse, knowledge, and social change in the information or knowledge-based society; the "textually-mediated" nature of contemporary social life; the relationship between discourse and social difference; the…

Discusses the use of student journals as a means of assessing the intellectual journey taken by students through a postgraduate course in critical language awareness. Shows how students construct their multiple identities in their journals and how these identities are transformed or conserved as they enter a new discourse community. (Author/VWL)