Idiomatic Mastery in a First and Second Language

By (author) Monica Karlsson

Publication date:

11 January 2019

Publisher

Multilingual Matters

Dimensions:

234x156mm
6x9"

ISBN-13: 9781788922364

The comprehension, retention and production of idiomatic expressions is one of the most difficult areas of the lexicon for second language (L2) learners, even very advanced students, to master. This book investigates this under-researched and interesting aspect of language acquisition, shedding light on both conventional uses of idiomatic expressions as well as creative variant forms. The chapters in the book delve into different aspects of idiomatic mastery: students’ comprehension of canonically used idioms in both their first and second language; the effects of multimedia and visualization techniques on learners’ comprehension and retention of L2 idioms; students’ misinterpretations of L2 idioms; L2 learners’ comprehension of creative idiom variants and their use of idioms in free composition writing.

Chapter 1. Introduction

Chapter 2. The Simultaneous Effects of Age, Context, Transparency and Frequency on Idiom Comprehension in a First and Second Language

Chapter 3. Do Multimodal and Visualization Techniques Enhance Students’ Comprehension and Retention of L2 Idioms?

Chapter 4. Persisting Ignorance and (Partial) Misinterpretations of L2 Idioms after Treatment

Chapter 5. L2 Comprehension of Creative Idiom Variants

Chapter 6. Productive Mastery of L2 Idioms in Free Composition Writing

Chapter 7. Summing Up and Directions for Future Research

The book offers new and valuable insights into L2 learners' understanding, retrieval and use of idiomatic expressions. This is especially true as the studies included focus on previously largely neglected areas of investigation. It should therefore be a welcome addition to instructors and researchers alike working within this particular field.