An essential foundation in applied linguistics, this accessible book is designed for language teachers and students of applied linguistics with a focus on foreign language education. Ideal for courses on second language acquisition and teaching, chapters cover the history of applied linguistics, as well as the essential topics of second language acquisition, language policy and planning, second language teaching, lexicology, lexicography, and translation. Each chapter ends with a useful summary and practical activities to consolidate and embed student understanding, while questions for reflection throughout encourage deeper engagement with the material. Suggested further readings and resources give students the opportunity to extend their learning and explore topics of interest. Highlighting the latest research in the field, and providing a unique dual focus on English and Spanish linguistics, this is the ideal textbook for those seeking to develop an up-to-date and rounded understanding of applied linguistics in relation to foreign language education.