Language acquisition

Language acquisition

1. Language theories

   • Interaction Hypothesis
     • Comprehensible input through modified interaction with proficient speakers of a language are required in order to dully learn a second language: - Simplified language - Clarifying questions ("Do you understand?") -Repeating what the learner said in correct form
   • Comprehensible Output
     • Learners need to actively participate in conversation with others using their new language to effectively acquire the language in addition to receiving comprehensible input.
   • Input processing model
     • How learners process the information they receive when acquiring a new language: -Process for meaning first -Rely on content words - Words and grammar connect meaning -First-noun strategy to understand
     • Two sub-processes when learning a new language: -Accommodation -Incorporate "mental pictures -Restructuring: -Other aspects change without the learning knowing -Output processing -Make use of the acquired language.
   • Processability
     • Some parts of language acquisition are easier than others process. -Beginning or end are easier -Middle more challenging

2. Language theorist

   • Chomsky
     • Innateness
       • A child's brain contains special language-learning mechanisms at birth.
   • Piaget
     • Cognitive
       • Language is just one aspect of a child's overall intellectual development.
   • Brunner
     • Interaction
       • This theory emphasises the interaction between children and their care-givers
   • Skinner
     • Behaviurist
       • Children imitate adults. Their correct utterances are reinforced when they get what they want or are praised