Reflecting growth in research interest in second language vocabulary over the past 30 years, this edited volume explores the current themes and possible future directions in second language vocabulary research. The collection brings together review papers and quantitative studies, and considers vocabulary in the contexts of teaching, learning and assessment. Key themes explored in the volume include multidimensionality of vocabulary knowledge, the nature of word learnability, the interface between receptive vocabulary knowledge and productive vocabulary use, the partial-to-precise continuum of vocabulary knowledge, conditions favouring vocabulary learning and use, and the use of corpora to develop word lists to inform second language teaching. The themes presented in this volume reflect current thinking and research avenues at the interface between research enquiry and second language teaching practice.

Contents: David Hirsh: Introduction - David Hirsh: Vocabulary Research: Current Themes, New Directions - Hua Zhong: Multidimensional Vocabulary Knowledge: Development from Receptive to Productive Use - Chen-Chun Lin: The Nature of Word Learnability in L2 Contexts - Yu-Tse Lee/David Hirsh: Quality and Quantity of Exposure in L2 Vocabulary Learning - Chen-Chun Lin/David Hirsh: Manipulating Instructional Method: The Effect on Productive Vocabulary Use - Warren Matsuoka: Searching for the Right Words: Creating Word Lists to Inform EFL Learning.