Cognitive linguistics is a relatively new discipline which is rapidly becoming mainstream and influential, particularly in the area of second language teaching. Some findings from cognitive linguistics lend further support to existing language teaching methodologies, whereas others have led to intriguing suggestions for alternative ways of presenting grammar and vocabulary in the language classroom. Moreover, cognitive linguistics offers some interesting and new explanations for the fact that at times, 'students don't seem to learn what they have been taught'. It is therefore useful for language teachers and those who train or mentor teachers to know something about cognitive linguistics, as knowledge of this fascinating subject may influence their approach to teaching and/or training. This book introduces the subject of cognitive linguistics in a clear and accessible style and discusses the ways in which it can inform language teaching practice. (Publisher Book Description)