ENG504
➡️ Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
Second Language Acquisition (SLA) examines how individuals acquire a second language. SLA
involves complex interactions between cognitive, emotional, and social factors.
➡️ Nature of Language, Modularity and SLA
Language modularity suggests that language consists of separate components (phonology, syntax,
semantics). SLA research explores how these components interact.
➡️ Variability
Variability in SLA refers to individual differences in language learning. Factors influencing
variability include age, motivation, instruction, and environment.
➡️ Creativity and Second Language Learning
Creativity in SLA enables learners to generate novel language forms. This capacity is essential for
effective communication.
➡️ Second Language Use and Performance
Second language use involves applying language knowledge in real-life contexts. Performance
refers to actual language use.
➡️ Perspective Difference Between Individual Learners
Individual learners bring unique perspectives, experiences, and learning styles to SLA.
➡️ Behaviourism and First Language Acquisition
Behaviourism views language acquisition as a result of external stimuli and reinforcement.
However, this perspective oversimplifies complex cognitive processes.
➡️ Second Language Learning and Krashen’s Monitor Model
Krashen's Monitor Model proposes that learners acquire language through natural communication,
with optional monitoring for accuracy.
➡️ SLA Hypotheses
Key SLA hypotheses include:
- Input Hypothesis: comprehensible input facilitates acquisition
- Interaction Hypothesis: interaction enhances language learning
- Output Hypothesis: producing language promotes acquisition
➡️ Second Language and Universal Grammar
Universal Grammar (UG) proposes an innate language faculty. SLA research explores UG's role
in second language learning.
➡️ Universal Grammar and First Language Acquisition
UG influences first language acquisition, providing an innate foundation for language
development.
➡️ Universal Grammar and Second Language Learning
UG's role in SLA is debated. Some argue UG constrains second language learning.
➡️ Evaluation of Universal Grammar and Cognitive Approaches
Cognitive approaches emphasize learners' mental processes. Evaluating UG and cognitive
approaches reveals complexities in SLA.
➡️ Models of Second Language Learning
Notable models include:
- Behavioural
- Cognitive
- Interactional
- Connectionist
➡️ Learning Strategies and Second Language Learning
Effective learning strategies enhance Second Language Acquisition (SLA). Common strategies
include:
- Self-monitoring: tracking progress
- Peer interaction: collaborating with fellow learners
- Seeking feedback: requesting correction
- Self-directed learning: autonomous study
- Metacognitive strategies: planning, evaluating, and adjusting learning
➡️ Theories of Second Language Processing and Connectionism
Connectionism proposes that language processing involves neural networks. Key concepts:
- Distributed representation: language knowledge spread across networks
- Pattern recognition: learners recognize patterns in language
- Automaticity: language processing becomes automatic
➡️ Evaluation Of Cognitive Approaches and Functional Perspectives
Cognitive approaches focus on mental processes, while functional perspectives emphasize
language use. Evaluation highlights:
- Cognitive strengths: understanding mental processes
- Cognitive limitations: neglecting social context
- Functional strengths: emphasizing language use and context
- Functional limitations: overlooking individual differences
➡️ Cognitive, Textual, Social, Orientations and Functionalism
Functionalism integrates cognitive, textual, and social aspects to understand language use.
Orientations include:
- Cognitive orientation: focuses on mental processes
- Textual orientation: examines language structure
- Social orientation: considers social context
- Functional orientation: integrates cognitive, textual, and social aspects
➡️ Functionalism and Interaction in Second Language Learning
Functionalism highlights interaction's role in shaping language learning. Interaction facilitates:
- Language practice
- Feedback
- Negotiation of meaning
- Development of pragmatic competence
➡️ Input and Interaction in Second Language Acquisition
Comprehensible input and interaction facilitate language acquisition. Key factors:
- Input quality: relevance, complexity, and authenticity
- Interaction type: peer, teacher, or self-directed
- Interaction frequency: regular engagement
➡️ Consciousness Raising, Negative Feedback and Negative Evidence
Consciousness-raising techniques, negative feedback, and negative evidence aid language
learning.
Consciousness-raising: increasing awareness of language features
- Negative feedback: correcting errors
- Negative evidence: providing examples of incorrect language use
B.Ed. (1.5 Years) BS English Files
