This article reviews some essential theoretical and empirical research literature that discusses the role of memory in second language acquisition and instruction. Two models of literature review -thematic and study-by-study -were used to analyze and synthesize the existing research. First, issues of memory retention in second language acquisition (e.g., attention and awareness, explicit and implicit language learning and knowledge) are investigated. Second, instructional approaches conducive

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... memory retention in second language acquisition (e.g., incidental vocabulary learning, grammar processing instruction, focus on form method) are examined. Additionally, created by the author with the Inspiration software program, a literature map of the reviewed and additional research related to the topic is presented in the Appendix for reader's reference.