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
