Corrective Feedback for Oral Language Errors
What Every Second Language Teacher Needs to Know
Translating research on corrective feedback for spoken language into clear, classroom-ready guidance
Description
Speaking activities are where language comes alive, and where teachers face the constant question of whether to correct errors on the spot or let communication flow. Correct too much and learners may shut down; correct too little and persistent errors can fossilize. Taking this everyday dilemma seriously, this book explains what research actually shows about correcting spoken errors, why timing and feedback type matter, and how learner factors like anxiety and attention shape what students take in. Most importantly, the book helps teachers make practical, confident choices about oral corrective feedback without turning interaction into interruption.
Extending beyond a grammar-dominant focus, Ergül addresses pragmatics and discourse intonation as consequential but often neglected correction targets, and frames pronunciation feedback around intelligibility and functional load rather than native-likeness. The book also examines technology-mediated corrective feedback (including synchronous computer-mediated communication, speech visualization, and AI-based tools) as options that can expand feedback opportunities when aligned with instructional goals. With concrete classroom guidance, reproducible student handouts, and reflection tools, Corrective Feedback on Oral Language Errors supports teachers who want learners to speak more, speak more accurately, and build long-term confidence.
Hilal Ergül is Associate Professor of Applied Linguistics/TESOL at the University of Northern Iowa.