Theories of Language Acquisition by Starshine Christian

First Language Acquisition Theories

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 20:51:06 UTC

Summary of Language Acquisition Theories related to L1 and L2 development. (note: not yet fully understood/researched, many conflicting theories)

Behaviorist Theory

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 20:54:29 UTC

Hypothesis: Children learn L1 through stimulus, response, reinforcement, imitation, & association.

Described by many to be an insufficient theory for language development.

Key terms: stimulus, response, reinforcement (3 basic elements of learning)

Innatist Theory

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 20:59:35 UTC

Hypothesis: By Noam Chomsky, (focus is on infancy) stated that language acquisition is accounted for by biological acquisition device (system). AKA, we are hardwired for language, with universal grammar that comes once their "mother tongue" is learned. We are "innately" able to communicate.

Theory that learning is done through testing and using rules. They get these skills from parents, teachers, etc.

Researchers took this theory and expanded upon it by looking at grammar skills throughout different stages of language development.

Interactionist Theory

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:02:45 UTC

Hypothesis: Caregivers influence language & facilitate language acquisition. Emphasis on importance of both nature and nurture.

Focus on social interactions with parents and caregivers.

Interactions do not equal understanding. Understanding is developed over time, "through misunderstanding".

Second Language Acquisition Theory

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:06:42 UTC

L1 theories were utilized in considering L2 Acquisition.

Summarized as an interdisciplinary field with attention paid to social and cultural conventions and how connections between language and culture come into play.

Behaviorist Perspective

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:08:37 UTC

Hypothesis: Second language acquisition process consists of imitation, repetition, and reinforcement of grammatical structures. Errors have to be corrected immediately to avoid bad habits.

Innatist Perspective

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:13:42 UTC

Hypothesis: Stephen Krahsen has 5 Hypotheses about L2 Acquisition in regards to innatist perspective.

"People acquire second languages when they obtain comprehensible input and when their affective filters are low enough to allow the input in."

1. Acquisition/Learning Hypothesis

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:15:18 UTC

Definition: Difference btwn learning & acquiring a language. Learning is formal and conscious study of language, acquiring leads to natural and fluent communication.

2. Monitor Hypothesis

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:16:35 UTC

Definition: Internal grammar editor or "monitor" is developed from formally studying a language to ensure the correct use based on knowledge of the rules.

3. Natural Order Hypothesis

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:17:52 UTC

Definition: Language learners acquire rules in a specific, predictable sequence, variations can occur and are influenced by L1.

4. Input Hypothesis

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:19:01 UTC

Definition: L2 is the result of a learners understanding within the context of natural communication. Context, background knowledge, and cues like body language/gesture/pictures have an influence.

5. Affective Filter Hypothesis

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:20:20 UTC

Definition: Having a low- anxiety learning environment that is motivating, with increased self- confidence and self- esteem will motivate the learner to acquire L2.

Interactionist Perspective

starchristianwork — 2024-06-30 21:27:04 UTC

Hypothesis: Input that is comprehensible is necessary for L2 acquisition. Communicating naturally in conversation is a crucial aspect. Errors are corrected naturally in most cases, some redirection will occur in conversation or through instruction.

Key terms: negotiation of meaning