Bilinguality and Bilingualism

Bilinguality and Bilingualism

Publisher
Cambridge University Press
Published
2000
Pages
468
ISBN-13
9780521648431
Format
print
Language
English

This updated and revised edition of Hamers and Blanc's successful textbook presents state-of-the-art knowledge about languages in contact from individual bilingualism (or bilingua…

Book Summary
Bilinguality and Bilingualism by Hamers and Blanc is a comprehensive academic textbook exploring the psychological, social, and educational dimensions of bilingualism. It covers language acquisition, cognitive effects, identity, and societal policies. Ideal for students and researchers, this rigorous work provides a balanced, research-based foundation for understanding bilingual phenomena across cultures and contexts.
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About Bilinguality and Bilingualism

Bilinguality and Bilingualism by Josiane F. Hamers and Michel H. A. Blanc is a foundational textbook in the field of bilingualism studies. It offers a multidisciplinary examination of individual bilinguality and societal bilingualism, drawing on psychology, linguistics, sociology, and education. The book covers key topics such as language acquisition in bilingual children, cognitive and academic consequences of bilingualism, the role of identity and social context, and language planning and education policies. It critically reviews research and theoretical models, providing a balanced perspective on debates like the bilingual advantage and subtractive vs. additive bilingualism. With its clear structure and comprehensive coverage, this text is widely used in advanced undergraduate and graduate courses, equipping readers with the conceptual tools to analyze bilingual phenomena in diverse settings.

Who should read Bilinguality and Bilingualism?

This book is essential for advanced undergraduate and graduate students in linguistics, psychology, education, and sociology, as well as researchers and practitioners working with bilingual individuals and communities. It suits language teachers, speech therapists, and policymakers seeking a research-grounded understanding of bilingual development and bilingual education. Readers should have some prior background in linguistics or psychology to fully engage with the theoretical discussions and empirical studies presented.

Pros & Cons
Pros
  • ✓ Comprehensive and multidisciplinary coverage of bilingualism
  • ✓ Rigorous, research-based content with extensive references
  • ✓ Balanced treatment of theoretical debates and empirical findings
  • ✓ Clear structure and accessible writing for an academic text
  • ✓ Widely used and respected in university courses
Cons
  • ✗ Dense academic style may overwhelm general readers
  • ✗ Some sections reflect dated research from the 1990s
  • ✗ Limited practical classroom strategies for teachers
  • ✗ Assumes prior knowledge of linguistics and psychology
  • ✗ Focuses more on theory than on application
Frequently asked questions
Is this book suitable for self-study?
It can be used for self-study by readers with a background in linguistics or psychology, but the dense academic content may require supplementary resources or guidance.
Does it cover both child and adult bilingualism?
Yes, the book addresses bilingual language acquisition in children and discusses cognitive and social aspects relevant to adults as well.
Is the content still relevant today?
While some research is dated, the core theories and frameworks remain influential and provide a solid foundation for understanding bilingualism.
Does it include practical teaching strategies?
The book focuses more on theoretical and research perspectives than on practical classroom strategies, though it informs educational policy and practice.
What is the reading level?
It is written for advanced undergraduate and graduate students, assuming some familiarity with linguistic and psychological concepts.

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