Bridging the Gap between Theory and Practice: A Journey Through Conducting Genre-Based Research in Applied Linguistics for Identifying and Analyzing Genres

Abstract

This article discusses Conducting Genre-Based Research in Applied Linguistics: A Methodological Guide, edited by Matt Kessler and Charlene Polio, that addresses the theory-practice gap in genre-based pedagogy. The book emphasizes the importance of systemic functional linguistics (SFL) and its integration into the teaching and learning cycle to improve students' understanding and production of different genres. Theoretical foundations of Halliday's SFL are discussed alongside practical methods such as case studies, ethnography and metadiscourse analysis. The volume offers a comprehensive framework for researchers and educators and describes tools and approaches for analyzing multimodal texts, understanding multilingual competence, and applying genre knowledge in diverse contexts. The strengths of the book lie in its interdisciplinary perspectives, clear methodological guidelines, and practical applications, making it a valuable resource for scholars and educators seeking to bridge the gap between language theory and teaching practice.