Second Language Acquisition Theories & Processes

Second Language Acquisition Theories & Processes

1. Academic Language Scaffolding Process

   • Steven Krashen & Merrill Swain
   • Providing the learner with L2 input that is a little beyond his or her current level
     • Giving the student content to work on that is beyond their level.

2. Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS)

   • Jim Cummins
   • BICS is used to described the "surface" skills such as speaking and listening that is typically acquired quickly by students.
     • As a teacher it is important that you work closely with students learning a new language to make sure they are picking up these new skills quickly and not falling behind. Students can apply these philosophy in class as well as in their social situations.

3. Affective Filter Theory

   • Steven Krashen
   • Hypothesis that suggest that it is easier for a student to learn a language when he or she is not angry, upset, or emotional
     • In a classroom setting it is important to always make sure the student is in the best emotional state possible for learning

4. Adaptive Control of Thought

   • R.C. Anderson
   • Intelligence is the gathering together and fine tuning of many small units of knowledge that in total produce complex thinking
     • The process of the learner in the classroom is to take the two main processes of knowledge according to Anderson: declarative and procedural. The student will be able to learn certain material through visualization but other material will take time. This process is similar to building blocks!

5. Natural Order Hypothesis

   • Steven Krashen
   • This hypothesis says we acquire the rules of a language in a certain order that is predictable.
     • In the classroom we should see predications in the students language and set goals and prepare for the learning process of the student.

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