Studying Processability Theory: An Introductory Textbook(1 Processability Approaches to Language Acquisition Research & Teaching)

Processability Theory (PT) as developed by Manfred Pienemann is a prominent theory of second language acquisition. PT serves as a framework for a wide range of research covering issues, including L2 processing, interlanguage variation, typological effects on SLA, L1 transfer, pidgins and creoles, linguistic profiling, stabilisation/fossilisation and teachability. This textbook provides a reader-friendly introduction to PT. It is designed for students with a basic knowledge of (applied) linguistics. The components of PT are set out in four parts. The first part focuses on observed facts, in particular on paths of L2 development and learner variation. The second part gives an overview of the theoretical basis of PT. Part three details the application of PT to contexts other than ESL (i.e. Japanese, creoles and bilingual acquisition), and the fourth part focuses on practical applications. Each chapter contains exercises (including data analysis and interpretation) which may be used for individual study or in class. The textbook can be used as a concise introduction to PT. However, it may also serve as a point of reference for particular PT-related topics. The individual chapters were written by specialists in each of the research areas.

Table of Contents:
1. Contributors; 2. Abbreviations; 3. Preface; 4. Acknowledgements; 5. Part I. The facts; 6. Developmental schedules (by Pienemann, Manfred); 7. Learner variation (by Pienemann, Manfred); 8. Part II. The theory; 9. The psycholinguistic basis of PT (by Pienemann, Manfred); 10. Explaining developmental schedules (by Pienemann, Manfred); 11. Explaining learner variation (by Liebner, Mathias); 12. L1 transfer (by Pienemann, Manfred); 13. Research methodology: How do we know about developmental schedules? (by Kessler, Jorg-U.); 14. Part III. Applying PT to other contexts; 15. Japanese as a second language: A test case for the typological plausibility of PT (by Kawaguchi, Satomi); 16. Pidgins and creoles (by Plag, Ingo); 17. Bilingual first language acquisition (by Itani-Adams, Yuki); 18. Part IV. Practical applications; 19. Diagnosing L2 development: Rapid Profile (by Kessler, Jorg-U.); 20. Teaching (by Kessler, Jorg-U.); 21. References; 22. Appendices; 23. Name index; 24. Subject index

Review :
I would recommend this book to anyone studying or researching Applied Linguistics, especially SLA, including future teachers. It offers an incredibly comprehensive overview of research into PT and its applications, is well-structured and easy to read despite its enormous theoretical breadth. Understanding the complex processes that govern second language acquisition in the light of PT is as important for language teachers as being fluent in the language that they teach.