Introduction
In this paper we present the variations encountered in advanced university learners’ controlled and uncontrolled productions after a focused-instruction experience of formulaic sequences. After a brief reference to the theoretical framework, the study is described in terms of the context, the selected FSs, the research design, the treatment and data-collection procedures. What follows is the analysis of the data gathered through the different instruments in search of the target and non - target use of the FSs taught and the different types of variations offered. Based on the literature, we then turn to the discussion of some guidelines for the teaching of FSs.