Chapter 5. The Input Processing Theory in second language acquisition

The importance of input has always been recognised in the field of second language acquisition and hence one of the key questions addressed by researchers is how second language (L2) learners process input when listening or reading. The purpose of the present chapter is threefold. First, a synopsis of VanPatten’s Input Processing Theory (VanPatten 1996, 2004, 2007) is provided. Input Processing Theory aims to offer an explanation as to how L2 learners process input, how they make form-meaning connections and how they map syntactic structures onto the utterance. Secondly, a review of empirical research supporting input processing principles will be provided and, finally, theoretical and pedagogical implications from research within the input processing framework will be drawn.