"This volume offers an introduction to the field of second language acquisition with a particular focus on second language Spanish. It connects key issues in the acquisition of Spanish as a second language to theoretical and empirical issues in the field of second language acquisition more generally by exemplifying central concepts in second language acquisition through the exploration of the most widely researched structures and most recent developments in the field of second language Spanish. It is written for a non-specialist audience, making it suitable for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses and readers while its treatment of recent empirical developments also makes it of interest to researchers in second language Spanish as well as allied fields"-- Provided by publisher.

Introduction to perspectives on second language acquisition --Research methods -- First language influence and the acquisition of /b d g/ -- Developmental paths and the acquisition of copula contrast -- Form-meaning mapping and the acquisition of past-time marking -- Input, language variation and the acquisition of object pronouns -- Study abroad and the acquisition of variable /s/-weakening -- Insights for the classroom and the acquisition of subject forms.