Language Acquisition and Second Language Acquisition: quizzes, mind maps and notes

Most of this page is mind maps, and they centre on how people acquire a second language. Several follow Stephen Krashen: the Monitor Hypothesis, Input Hypothesis, Natural Order Hypothesis, Affective Filter Hypothesis and the Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis. Others widen the view, with Universal Grammar, behaviourism, acculturation, the interactionist model and BICS versus CALP.

Where to start

Begin with the mind map Stephen Krashen: Theories in Second Language Acquisition. It sets out the core hypotheses in one place. Next, open Language Learning Theories to see how cognitive, behaviourist and acculturation ideas sit side by side. Then try Second Language Acquisition Processes and Theories, which adds BICS versus CALP and the interactionist model.

Read a Krashen map to learn the vocabulary.
Compare it with a wider theories map.
Move on to processes, stages and learner factors.

Processes, age and learners

Once the theories are clear, look at how learning unfolds. One map lists five stages, from preproduction to advanced fluency. Age and Acquisition covers the Critical Period Hypothesis and neurobiological arguments. Cognitive influences on Language Learning looks at the strategies and processes learners use, and there are also maps on learner differences and teenage motivation.

Using maps and quizzes together

Read a map first, then cover it and write down what you remember. After that, try quizzes such as Popular Ideas About Language Learning Quiz to check your understanding of common beliefs about language learning. Flashcards and notes, including the notes on Krashen's five hypotheses, help with quick recall.

Where it fits

This unit sits in the strand Language Learning and Teaching Approaches, within Education and pedagogy. Pick a map that matches what you are studying and work through it at your own pace.

Frequently asked questions

Which resource should I open first?

Start with the mind map Stephen Krashen: Theories in Second Language Acquisition. It lays out the Monitor, Input, Natural Order, Affective Filter and Acquisition-Learning hypotheses together. After that, Language Learning Theories shows how other approaches, such as behaviourism and Universal Grammar, compare.

What do the mind maps cover?

They cover theories such as Krashen's hypotheses, Universal Grammar and behaviourism, plus processes like the five stages of acquisition. Others look at the Critical Period Hypothesis, BICS versus CALP, learning strategies, motivation and differences between learners.

Are there quizzes on this page?

Yes, there are over 20 quizzes. They include Popular Ideas About Language Learning Quiz and ESL Self Test, along with course-style quizzes for EDRL 477. Use them after reading a map to see which ideas you still need to revisit.

Who are these resources for?

They mostly suit university students and professional candidates, such as those working towards the TKT, and teachers who want ready-made material. Nearly all the resources are at university level, so expect academic terms and named theorists.

Are the resources free, and who made them?

Every resource listed here is free to open, study and take, with no account needed. They were made by GoConqr users, not by GoConqr itself. A free account also saves your quiz scores and lets you make your own maps, flashcards and notes.

What if I cannot find the topic I need?

Try a broader map such as Second Language Acquisition Theories, since many topics sit inside larger maps. If something is still missing, make your own mind map or flashcard deck on it, using the listed resources as a model.