ENG504 Important Terms

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: