This paper discusses the functions of context in second language acquisition.The author divides context into two types: the macroscopic context and the microscopic context.The key points are the following:1. To a great extent,macroscopic context influences the learner’s choice of what language to learn. 2.Microscopic context influences the learner’s SLA quality and level. 3.A learner’s emotional and cognitive factors are both under the influence of the context. 4. An ideal context consists in the full development and exploitation of both the macroscopic context and the microscopic context.
