ABSTRACT
In this chapter we review aspects of the relationship between sociolinguistics and second language learning (SLL) theory. As we have seen in earlier chapters, theorizing about SLL has largely concentrated on modelling the development of language within the individual learner, in response to an environment defined fairly narrowly as a source of linguistic information. In much of this work sociolinguistic issues were addressed only as afterthoughts, if at all. However, it is clear that some sustained programmes of empirical research are now developing, in which sociolinguistic ideas are viewed as much more central to the understanding of SLL.
