Understanding Language Use in the Classroom

A proper understanding of academic English and how to use it is crucial for success in college, and yet students face multiple obstacles in acquiring this new 'code'. In this expanded edition, PowerPoint presentations and instructor materials are included to help educators engage students in this crucial area of their college education.

Susan J. Behrens is Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Director of the Center for Teaching Innovation and Excellence, Marymount Manhattan College, New York, USA. She contributes weekly lessons on writing and English composition to The New York Times in Education (nytimesineducation.com). Her other publications include Grammar: A Pocket Guide (Routledge 2010) and Language in the Real World: An Introduction to Linguistics (with Judith A. Parker, Routledge 2010).

Susan J. Behrens is Professor of Communication Sciences and Disorders, and Director of the Center for Teaching Innovation and Excellence, Marymount Manhattan College, New York, USA. She contributes weekly lessons on writing and English composition to The New York Times in Education (nytimesineducation.com). Her other publications include Grammar: A Pocket Guide (Routledge 2010) and Language in the Real World: An Introduction to Linguistics (with Judith A. Parker, Routledge 2010).

Meticulously researched and methodically organized, this book is written in a clear, accessible style. Informed by extensive interviews and her own years of classroom experience, Behrens’ engaging examples demystify the academic English that we want our students to master. I value this book as a resource for understanding the needs of my students, particularly those in their first year.

This important and highly accessible book demonstrates how an understanding of basic linguistics can help students improve their academic English. The comprehensive resources mean that the reader does not require a background in linguistics, and the clear and entertaining accompanying teaching materials will greatly assist educators with their lesson plans.

I am pleased to recommend this essential book on academic English from a renowned linguist. The accessible style, lesson plans, PowerPoints, and current topics make it a more useful text for students and instructors. Information on voice and speech science enhances the material on form and function of language.