Applied Cognitive Linguistics: What Every Language Practitioner Should Know

Abstract

The goal of this paper is twofold. First, to discuss the basics of Cognitive Science/Linguistics and second, to acknowledge its applications to second language pedagogy within the framework of Applied Cognitive Linguistics. Cognitive Linguistics is a theory of language which explains language learning in terms of communication, cognition and their relation to physical, spatial and social world. Ample research data suggest that a cognitive linguistic-based conceptualization of an L2 moves both language instructors and learners away from traditional distinctions, such as the lexicon-grammar dichotomy and highlight the systematicity that underlies various language structures. In this regard, introducing a cognitive linguistic-based instruction gives rise to and redefines new/current concepts and teaching techniques, such as conceptual fluency, motivation, figurative, metaphorical and idiomatic competence respectively, metaphorical density and intelligence, conceptual syllabus and pedagogical grammar. These concepts and their content, taken altogether, are expected to facilitate L2 classroom practice.