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Language acquisition requires being in tune with grammatical rules, semantics, lexicon, etc. This is a task that can become very difficult, especially when ELs are confronted with figurative language, where the meaning of words and phrases does not correlate with the literal translation of such words and phrases. Syntax can vary throughout different cultures, for example, how in Mexico, the adjective typically comes after the noun while in the United States, adjectives typically come before the noun in a sentence. Relearning sentence structures can be a challenge that hinders language acquisition.

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Body language is another factor involved in language acquisition. When introducing new vocabulary, sometimes body language and physical cues help cement context and aid in comprehension. English Language Learners might not understand the words and phrases being given to them, but physical cues and body language (e.g. putting up four fingers when counting and saying the number four) help them associate meaning to the words and phrases.

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Not understanding the language that surrounds them causes English Language Learners to feel disconnected and out of place. Those who acquire the language at a faster rate, eventually overcome this. However, for those who struggle, this can be enough to cause them to eventually drop out of school or avoid pursuing further education. They want to belong but they need to feel welcomed and considered to acquire the motivation and acquire the language.

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English Language Learners easily stand-out when compared to the rest of their peers because they are not raised with the same social norms and traditions. These are things that are embedded in language, and a factor that also impacts language acquisition. Certain structures in language can vary based on one's culture. For example, in Mexico, when writing an essay, the first paragraph never gets indented, only the paragraphs that follow it do. In the United States however, all paragraphs in an essay are indented. In order to acquire language, the transition to new cultural standards needs to be acknowledged before being adapted. They also lack much of the background knowledge needed to comprehend in depth the new socio-cultural norms and traditions. However, being fully absorbed into a society that provides the need for language acquisition in order to meet basic needs means that the motivation for learning increases as well. Need surpasses want.

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Aside from learning new vocabulary and social norms, English Language Learners need to be able to interpret the information being given to them. They need to be able to contextualize and think critically, all of which require deep mental processes such as acquiring information and knowing when and how to use it. This is yet another factor that affects language acquisition. It is also a factor that takes the longest to overcome and a skill that takes time to develop.

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Language equals power; the more speakers of the language the more influence and power the community holds. History has proven this theory multiple times. Empires rise and eventually fall, however their legacy survives through language. It is only until no one is left to speak it, that the culture connected to it disappears. English Language Learners are introduced into a society that holds a significant amount of power over them in many aspects: politically and socially. They need to have some level of understanding to meet their basic needs (e.g. buying food from the grocery store, communicating with law enforcement in emergencies, receiving medical attention, etc.).