Introduction
The purpose of this report is to explore the different theories related to first and second language acquisition and the theories of literacy learning and associated approaches. Furthermore, to consider the impact it may have on language learning, how it relates to the role of a language teacher and the implementation of strategies to facilitate and foster effective learning.
Rational
Language and literacy is a key component for effective social interaction and communication. Strong literacy skills will provide the learner will effective tools to implement in their daily lives and increase the probability of gaining employment. I have referred to some excellent books; such as “How Languages are learned” and “The Natural Approach” for information and guidance. Additionally, I reflected on prior knowledge of Theories of Learning, gained through attainment of 7307 and CertED. Peer discussions and tutor explanations helped me greatly to exchange ideas, to seek clarification and guidance in completing this report.
1.1,1.2 a)Theories of first and second language acquisition and learning and associated language learning approaches.
Language acquisition is one of the main characteristics of human development; it is an essential tool for humans to communicate with one another. First Language (L1) acquisition refers to person’s natural acquisition of their mother tongue. Second language (L2) acquisition is learning another language after a first language has
Many popular theories of second language acquisition have been analyzed throughout history. The socialization of L2 learners, their present emotional state that is present at time of acquisition, as well as the comprehensible input and output with the use of scaffolding play a major role in second language acquisition. Let us also not forget the importance of written expression as well as reading comprehension with these L2 learners. Each play a role in language development. However, I believe that in acquiring a language, one must use a variety of techniques that work together to create a balance within the learning environment. Furthermore, all L2 learners learn differently and so a variety of resources will need to be used based on the ability of each student. There are many theories that have been developed by highly qualified experts in the field on linguistics. However, I will address those areas that I agree with as I present my personal theories on second language acquisition.
Acquisition of an L2 (second language), has always been an important issue in the field of linguistics, and its relationship with an L1 (First language) is what concerns Vivian Cook in the chapter called “The relationship between first and second language learning revisited”.
The approaches to Second Language Acquisition (SLA for short) have been changing and developing throughout the years. Since the beginning of the study of Second Language Acquisition, the approaches and theories of SLA have ranged from the Behaviourist approach to SLA by an American psychologist Burrhus Frederic Skinner in 1940s-1950s to Universal Grammar approach by an American linguist Noam Chomsky in 1960-1970s to the Information Processing Model introduced by Barry McLaughlin in 1983 (Malone 2012: 1). The field of SLA research nowadays includes relatively new approaches such as cognitive linguistics, as well as skill acquisition and various sociocultural theories, connectionism and many more. However,
The learning provisions for development in literacy are extremely important and can be reached by using their language skills. They learn to communicate with others through three main ways: they are Speaking, Reading and Writing. These three areas interact with each other and develop the Childs self-expression and imagination. They must be given the opportunity within all different subject areas to use and extend their language so that their thinking skills progress to a higher level.
Second language acquisition has long been the focus of linguists and researchers in the teaching field. It highlights the process and theories of acquiring second languages among learners. Second language acquisition seeks to understand the development of second language acquisition among second language learners. Mastering the knowledge of second language acquisition helps teachers to successfully provide effective teaching for students. Undeniably, knowledge on second language acquisition is very much related to effective teaching of second languages. Many linguists and teacher educators believe that all language teachers should be equipped with knowledge of second language acquisition to help them teach effectively. Additionally, most teacher training programmers have incorporated second language acquisition as a compulsory course to make sure that all future language teachers are well-equipped with enough knowledge to teach in classroom.
Within this paper we will take a brief look at the Language Acquisition Principles and how they work on the behalf of ELL students. We will see how these principles can be applied within our own learning environment. There is much information from Walqui article that gives a brief overview of ELL students and how things looked in the past for these students. Now that times has change we will see how educators can make the requirements for ELL students better and more effective for teacher and students. Hopefully, as we look at ways of changing learning for our ELL students we must remember that every student learns differently. Even if you follow the principles from
Language is the primary way to communicate, learn and express identity. Some language learners are successful by virtue of their sheer determination, hard work and diligence. However, there are other crucial factors influencing success that are largely beyond the control of learners. ' 'Second language is any language other than the learner 's native language or mother tongue ' '(Mitchell pg 5). To be successful in second language acquisition, there are various factors which act as barrier in the process of learning English as a second language.
Since, the second language is an additional language after we acquire the first language, the L2 learning process can be influenced by the L1 learning process This essay will demonstrate the similarities and differences in L1 and L2 acquisition by discussing various theories. Then, draw a conclusion based on the evidence provided and my own experience.
First thing’s first. What is language acquisition? Well the term refers to the process humans take to develop and attain a form of communication.
One of the best ways to help students learn a second language is to use a variety of settings that promote talk and interaction. These not only help students understand new concepts, but they also help to provide a foundation for learning through reading and writing. Since literacy is part of language, reading and writing develop alongside speaking and listening. Students who spend time talking and listening to each other and working on reading and writing activities are able to develop more proficiency in all language modes.
Many popular theories of second language acquisition have been analyzed throughout history. The socialization of L2 learners, their present emotional state that is present at the time of acquisition, as well as the comprehensible input and output with the use of scaffolding play a major role in second language acquisition. Kirsten Hummel states, “The one most effective way to increase L2 competence was by exposure to ‘comprehensible input’.” (Hummel, 2014, p. 73) Let us also not forget the importance of written expression as well as reading comprehension with these L2 learners. Each plays a role in language development. However, I believe that to acquire language one must use a variety of techniques that work together to create a balance within the learning environment. Furthermore, all L2 learners acquire language differently and so using a variety of resources that are based on the ability of each student is neccesary. There are many theories that have been developed by highly qualified experts in the field of linguistics. However, I will address those areas that I agree with as I present my personal theories on second language acquisition.
Krashen & Terrell (1995) explore five hypotheses of second language acquisition theory in their chapter. These hypotheses include, “the acquisition-learning hypothesis, the natural order hypothesis, the monitor hypothesis, the input hypothesis, and the affective filter hypothesis” (Krashen & Terrell, 1995). The concepts outlined in this chapter provide a foundation of the process that English language learners (ELLs) are developing through. However, like all theory, it is up to myself as the classroom teacher, to translate this theoretical into a working
The first area of difference between first (L1) and second (L2) language learning is input – specifically the quality and quantity of input. It is the idea of the "connectionist model that implies... (that the) language learning process depends on the input frequency and regularity" (5).. It is here where one finds the greatest difference between L1 and L2 acquisition. The quantity of exposure to a target language a child gets is immense compared to the amount an adult receives. A child hears the language all day everyday, whereas an adult learner may only hear the target language in the classroom – which could be as little as three hours a week. Even if one looks at an adult in a total submersion situation the quantity is still less because the amount of one on one interaction that a child gets for example with a parent or other caregiver is still much greater then the adult is receiving.
Introduction:Many theories about learning and teaching of languages have been proposed from a historical perspective and many changes have been brought in the language teaching methodologies based on the needs of the learner. The search for creativity /innovations to find more efficient and effective Ways of teaching languages went on through out the 20th century. From the origin of English Language Teaching there are many trends that have taken place. The teaching methodology has been changing the teachers; academicians started
Learning of second language process is different from learning Foreign Language. Second language learning process involves the learning of non-native language by the aid of non-native language speakers. In contrast, learning of Foreign Language learning involves the learning process in the environment of native language. The learning of First Language differs from others as a child is exposed to language rich environment over the many years. The richness of