What is "language"? Why is it difficult to learn and teach? In this fully asynchronous course, we will examine various aspects of language, such as its sound system, lexical system, morphosyntactic structures, as well as pragmatic and discourse features. Activities will include readings, discussions, and exercises designed to explore how these language systems function and what we, as teachers, can do in the classroom to help our learners engage with them successfully. Upon completion of the course, you will have the skills to analyze language components, select level- and context-appropriate learning objectives and instructional strategies, and provide a range of authentic materials to demonstrate to your learners how language is used. You will demonstrate your learning by conducting a language analysis project and compiling language resources to guide your teaching. Students pursuing the online MA TESOL must complete this course along with the other seven core courses before they can register for the two capstone courses.