Vocabulary acquisition history and it is importance in learning a language
Vocabulary learning is no longer the Cinderella of the field of second language acquisition (SLA) research. Since the early 1980s, research on second language vocabulary learning has taken a prominent role in the field of SLA. Previously, learning a language was heavily based on learning grammar rules, which learners have to follow and understand in order to use correct grammatical sentences. As a result, that has led to a neglect of learning vocabulary as there was an assumption that vocabulary can be learned through communication and can take care of itself (Meara, 1980; Maiguaschca, 1993).
A plethora of scholars (e.g., Carter & McCarthy, 1988; McCarthy, 1990; Nation, 2010; Nation & Laufer 2012; Schmitt, 2010) in vocabulary learning, however, argue that vocabulary acquisition is the basic foundation of language learning because words are the building blocks of communication and without them, learners will not be able to express themselves and communicate by using a target language. Lexical errors are the most common among second language learners. In fact, vocabulary errors seem to be not only the most serious ones for students, but also the most disruptive ones for native speakers in terms of interpretation. As Gass (1988) observes, grammatical errors still result in understandable structures (e.g., she a girl), whereas vocabulary errors may interfere with communication (e.g., He tried to hold the
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.
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.
A vocabulary is the set of words that make up a language. The acquisition of a vocabulary is a process that usually happens subconsciously and we usually are not aware that it is happening. Vocabulary can be classified as receptive or productive, i.e. what we understand and what we produce. But acquiring a vocabulary is a different process when it is a first language from when it is a second or a foreign language. Acquiring a first language is a natural process while acquiring a second language requires effort and hard work on the learner’s part. In first language acquisition, the basis for learning is universal grammar alone, but in second language acquisition, knowledge of the first language serves as groundwork for learning the second language
(2001) Intentional and incidental second language vocabulary learning: a reappraisal of elaboration, rehearsal and automaticity. In Cognition and Second Language Instruction (ed. P. Robinson), pp. 258–286. Cam-bridge University Press, Cambridge,
Students who are more introverted may observe and listen to others until they are more confident of what to say. Teachers need to understand that the outgoing student may not be as fluent as he or she seems to be and that the more introverted student may be more proficient in their second language than they appear to be. Although it will take time, both types of students will learn to speak their second language proficiently. While these students are learning, they will make mistakes. The article states that if teachers correct the mistakes directly, it may discourage students from trying out their new language skills. Modeling the correct language is a much better way of correcting mistakes then using direct correction.
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.
Researchers, such as Corder (1967) define the word ‘error’ when people do not follow grammatical rules or structures. At the basis of the accuracy-fluency controversy is the question of error. Once thought to be deviant behavior, error is now seen as a neutral phenomenon in learning of all kinds; learning to ice skate, to type, to analyze literature, to speak a first or second language. Of course, errors in written language can be due to intonation, memory lapse, or indifference and in an in-class writing situation, NES (Native English Speaker) as well as EFL (English as a First Language) students will make hasty performances errors. Generally, EFL errors are neither random, nor sporadic or deviant, instead they are systematic, regular and
The main theories of language acquisition perceive that children are capable of developing and maturing whether by themselves or with the support and stimulation from their environment to acquire language. The five
Although vocabulary is the sub-skill of a language, it plays a very important role in language learning and teaching. In fact, vocabulary is central to language and is of paramount importance to language learners. On the other hand, words are the building blocks of a language that are used to label objects, actions, and ideas. In other words, people cannot convey the intended meaning without knowing vocabulary. It is widely accepted that vocabulary is a very important part in English language learning because no one can communicate in any meaningful way without vocabulary. As McCarthy (1990) stated, the single, biggest component of any language course is vocabulary. Nation (1990) also affirms that vocabulary can be considered as the most important element in language learning because Learners think that many of their
Vocabulary plays a significant role in English as second language learning process. For the majority of English as Second Language(ESL) learners, the ultimate goal of learning the language is to understand (read and listen) and communicate (write and speak) with little difficulty and the lack of sufficient vocabulary may be the constraint of such goal (Folse, 2004). As the bedrock of English and as well as language, vocabulary also facilitates the development of other language skills: lexical richness leads to the progress in the use of language, namely listening, speaking, reading and writing skills (Nation, 1994). Reversely, The improvement in such skills may enhance learners vocabulary size as the exposure to more learning materials improves the capacity to acquire new vocabulary. (The importance of learning vocabulary/ why vocabulary?)
First Language Acquisition has multiple layers on how the primary language is taught and learned. There are many individuals that have a wide range of theories and insights on how first language acquisition is developed and can be improved.
Whereas according to Richards and Renandya (2002) (as cited in Rohmatillah, 2014), vocabulary is a core component of language proficiency and
For many years vocabulary was seen as incidental to the main purpose of language teaching – namely the acquisition of grammatical knowledge about the language. Vocabulary was necessary to give students something to hang on to when learning structures, but was frequently not a main focus for learning itself. If language structures make up the skeleton of language, then it is vocabulary that provides the vital organs and the flesh. An ability to manipulate grammatical structure does not have any potential for expressing meaning unless words are used. Then structural accuracy seems to
Vocabulary leads to a more accurate and effective communication and sharing of students’ ideas. In other words: “vocabulary is the foundation to build languages, which plays a fundamental role in communication” (Hatch and Brown, 1995, p. 1). It has a great impact on students when they want to convey and share their opinions and ideas. Not being able to find the words you need to express yourself is the most frustrating experience in speaking English or another language. The more words one learns, the more effective he/she share and express his/her ideas. For that reason, how well learners can communicate in English is partly dependent on how many vocabulary they have
Effective language learning is the necessity of time. No matter in which discipline you are or what field of occupation you have effective language is a vital goal to success, which cannot be ignored. There are several standards, which determine the criteria for effective language and the learning processes. However, determining a standard is the first and foremost element in this regard. Language teaching and language learning are two entirely different fields, which have their