Theory of Second and Foreign Language Learning

Abstract

Textbook theory of second language learning being the object under consideration, its coherence with the concepts of theory as a wide-ranging idea and language learning theory is established. Textbook theory is regarded as an indispensable part of language study implementing its fundamental principles. A conceptual hierarchical structure of three-level complexity corresponding to general research theory, theory of second language assimilation, and textbook theory is developed in order to provide congruence between the grades of the ranking model, which presumes the identification of significant uniform characteristics common to each (and any) type of theory. For the entire system to be modeled in holistic terms, there has been advanced a binary conception of theory construction. The binary opposition is a systematically organized functional formation with a large constructive and explanatory potential that allows us to use it for a complete description of the structure of a theory including its idealized object.