Includes bibliographical references, index and glossary.

"In this accessible introduction to Vygotskian sociocultural theory, narratives illuminate key concepts of the theory. These key concepts include:
mediation
Zone of Proximal Development
collaborative dialogue and private speech
everyday and scientific concepts
the interrelatedness of cognition and emotion
activity theory, and assessment.

The final chapter provides readers with an opportunity to consider two additional narratives and apply the SCT concepts that they have become familiar with. We hear from learners, teachers and researchers in a variety of languages, contexts, ages and proficiencies. Intended for graduate and undergraduate audiences, this new edition of the textbook includes controversies in the field, improved questions for collaborative discussion and provides updated references to important work in the literature of second language teaching, learning and research." (Publisher's Website)

TABLE OF CONTENTS:

Acknowledgements

Vygotsky's story in brief

1. Mona: Across Time and Geography
Mediation

2. Madame Tremblay: A French Immersion Story
The zone of proximal development (ZPD)

3. Narrative 1: Jody (Talking to Self) ; Narrative 2 Sophie and Rachel (talking to others and self)
Languaging: Private speech and collaborative dialogue

4. Thaya: Writing Across Languages
Everyday and scientific concepts: Establishing connections

5. Grace: The Effect of Affect
Interrelatedness of cognition and emotion

6. Sandra's Story: A Teacher's Dilemma
Activity theory

7. Yang: Being Assessed
Assessment from an SCT perspective

8. Maria and the Beatles; Jean-Paul and Second Life
The floor is yours

Discussion

Glossary

Bibliography

Index