Language analysis assignments in TESOL and applied linguistics

To design a useful language lesson, teachers must understand the inner workings of language. This chapter discusses key considerations found in different types of language analysis assignments, an important part of TESOL/AL program coursework. Language analysis assignments are designed to help teachers develop a habit of observing real language objectively and systematically. This chapter provides overarching considerations applicable to common language analysis assignments, in particular, phonetic transcriptions, solving phonology problems, linguistic description, and identifying grammatical patterns of error in learner speech. Using specific examples, it also highlights common pitfalls in these types of assignments and how to avoid them.