This volume brings together contributions by leading researchers active in developing the social interactional and socio-cultural approaches to language learning and teaching. It provides not only an introduction to this important growth point, but also an overview of cutting edge research, covering a wide range of language learning and teaching contexts, European and non-European languages, and bilingual and multilingual practices.

More than any book to date, this one provides a comprehensive approach to designing, building, implementing and interpreting test results that validly measure the academic achievement of English language learners. It scaffolds the entire process of test development and implementation and discusses essential intervention points. The book provides the type of evidence-based guidance called for in federal mandates such as the NCLB legislation.

"This book provides a really sound grounding in the theories that underpin successful teaching and learning. Without over-simplification it provides accessible introductions to the key learning theories with which teachers and students are likely to engage, and it has immense practical value."
Professor Sally Brown, Pro-Vice-Chancellor, Leeds Metropolitan University, UK

All teachers know that a well-managed classroom is the cornerstone of a strong instructional program, but many are uncertain where they should focus their energies. In The Key Elements of Classroom Management, three veteran teachers show how teachers can make real improvements in their classroom by concentrating on basic skills in three critical areas: ? Managing Time and Space.