本书填补了高师院校学法教法类系列教材的空白，具有一定的理论意义和较强的实用价值。该书具有如下几个特点：理论联系实际，针对性强；语言简明精炼，通俗易懂；体例设计新颖，特色鲜明等。

An Overview of Second Language Learning   1

Second Language Acquisition   2

Second Language Learner Language   16

An Overview of Second Language Learning   24

Errors in Second Language Learning   25

Developmental Patterns   47

Independent Language System   66

Behaviorist and Mentalist View   67

Interlanguage   81

Social Aspects of Interlanguage   99

Social Factors and Contexts of Interlanguage   100

Social Models and Social Learning Strategies   117

Psycholinguistic Aspects of Interlanguage   132

L1 Transfer   134

Communication Strategies   152

Discourse Aspects of Interlanguage   169

Input and Interaction   170

Output   186

Learner Differences   196

Psychological Differences   197

Learning Strategies   217

Theories of Second Language Acquisition   229

Krashen's Monitor Model   230

Other Theories   252

Research Methods in Second Language Acquisition   261

Research Design   262

Qualitative and Quantitative Study   278

Glossary   302