Second Language Acquisition

Start with the ideas

For an introduction to the resources on this page, start with the mind map “Language acquisition theories”. It outlines approaches to child language acquisition, including the idea that a child becomes aware of a concept before acquiring the words and patterns to express it. Use its branches to organize the ideas you want to study further.

Then look at “Theories of Language Acquisition”. Its branches include behaviorism, connectionism, sociocultural theory and the input hypothesis. Comparing the maps gives you a way to see which ideas each resource emphasizes.

Look at learners and strategies

The flowchart on learners brings together reasons and contexts for learning, learner differences, motivation and responsibility for learning. The “Learner differences” mind map also considers learners of different ages and the activities and attention they may need.

For a closer look at strategies, use “Learning Strategies”. It covers cognitive, mnemonic, metacognitive, affective and social strategies, as well as strategies for speaking and writing. You can note the terms that you want to explore alongside the learner resources.

Use the quiz with the maps

The quiz asks about carrying previously acquired knowledge into a later learning situation and about an obstacle to learning in behaviorist theories. Take it after studying the maps, then return to the relevant branches to check the ideas behind your answers. The mind map on second language acquisition includes language transfer, overgeneralization, learning strategies and communication strategies.

Place the topic in the unit

Second Language Acquisition is a section of Language Teaching and Assessment in English language. The resources connect acquisition theories with learners, strategies and teaching implications. Teachers can use the maps and flowchart as ready-made material, while university students can use them to organize their study. Choose a mind map and work through the quiz alongside it.