Cross-linguistic Similarity in Foreign Language Learning

Reviews / Votes

This book is a very timely and important contribution to the field of applied linguistics. Hakan Ringbom addresses the fundamental but unfortunately largely neglected question of the impact of cross-language similarity in foreign language learning. The extensive bibliography shows that the author has as a thorough knowledge of the development of research on the topic. He has also skillfully exploited the Finnish context, which provides an ideal "natural laboratory" for research on the role of cross-language similarity. The studies he cites are likely to be largely unknown but they are undoubtedly highly relevant to the international research community. The author provides a balanced review of the findings and presents a comprehensive theoretical approach to the study of SLA. This will provide many stimuli for a more sophisticated research agenda. This book is a must for anyone interested in SLA. -- Sauli Takala, Vaasa University The volume evokes an array of interesting issues for future research to investigate, some new and some perennial. The volume makes an important addition to SLA literature. It deserves the attention of anyone striving for a sound understanding not only of crosslinguistic influence but also of the history of SLA. -- ZhaoHong Han, Teachers College, Columbia University, USA * SSLA Vol 30:3 * Ringbom's latest work provides a thorough summary of cross-linguistic research that is readily applicable to the language teacher as well as the researcher.This text will assuredly contribute to your knowledge of language acquisition and stimulate your classroom practice and research horizons for years to come. -- Robert Taferner, Tama University/Lancaster University * The Language Teacher 31:9, September 2007 *