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Approaches and Methods in French Second Language Acquisition Research
Edited by Martin Howard
[Research Methods in Applied Linguistics 9] 2025
► pp. 338–367

Chapter 14
Approaches to investigating French as a third language

 | University of Gothenburg | Østfold University College
Research on third language acquisition has increased over the last few decades with numerous publications examining various aspects of the acquisition and use of a third language, as opposed to a second language (cf. Cenoz, Hufeisen, & Jessner 2001, Ringbom, 2007, Cabrelli Chaouch-Orozco, González Alonso, Pereira Soares, Puig-Mayenco, & Rothman, 2023). One of the most researched aspects is that of transfer, that is the ways in which previously acquired languages (both first, L1, and second languages, L2) influence the learning and use of yet another language, the L3. While transfer can occur at all linguistic levels, the majority of the studies concern syntax and lexis, and to some extent phonology. The present chapter will focus on L3 French. While the majority of prior studies have been devoted to transfer issues, there is also a growing body of research into socio-psychological aspects such as motivation, learning experiences and foreign language anxiety. Previous research will be reviewed from a methodological point of view by accounting for the study designs, the type of data and data analyses, and language combinations. The review will also include reflections on how ethical issues have been taken into account in previous research. Finally, it will bring up future methodological directions within L3 French research.
Keywords: third language acquisition, L3 French, transfer, cross-linguistic influence, motivation, learning experiences, foreign language anxiety
Article outline
  • Introduction
  • Research methods in L3 French
    • Cross-linguistic influence
    • Socio-psychological dimensions of L3 French
  • Discussion and future directions
  • Conclusion
  • Author queries
  • References
This content is being prepared for publication; it may be subject to changes.
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