ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on instructed contexts, where learning and teaching interact. It discusses a good knowledge of the various components of discourse also greatly supports such autonomous learning. Communication is central to second language (L2) study since most L2 learners expect to use the target language for communication. Human linguistic communication can entail the transmission of ideas, information, beliefs, emotions, and/or attitudes. A usage-based approach sees language as a complex, adaptive system that places the interaction between cognition and use at the center. The chapter provides examples and ways to improve proficiency by emphasizing the discourse perspective. In order to teach the speaking and listening skills from a discourse perspective, the teacher must ensure that the learners experience an abundance of natural or simulated interactions. Scaffolding refers to support provided to learners to promote their effective acquisition of a subject matter, a set of concepts or skills.
