presentation foundation of second language acquisition.pptx

The Foundations of Second Language Acquisition

Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is a complex process involving the learning of a language beyond one's native tongue. Unlike first language acquisition (FLA), which occurs naturally in early childhood, SLA is influenced by cognitive, social, and psychological factors that shape the learning process. SLA is an interdisciplinary field drawing from linguistics, psychology, education, and cognitive sciences. Researchers study how second languages are acquired, what factors contribute to success or failure, and how learning processes differ from those of a first language. Understanding the foundations of SLA is essential for language educators, linguists, and policymakers who seek to improve language learning experiences.

A fundamental difference between first and second language acquisition lies in the role of age, exposure, and cognitive development. First language acquisition occurs in an environment where the learner is constantly exposed to the language from birth, making it an intuitive and natural process. In contrast, SLA often takes place in a structured environment such as a classroom or through interactions with speakers of the target language. Unlike young children, who acquire their first language effortlessly, second language learners often struggle with aspects such as pronunciation, grammar, and fluency. Additionally, while native language acquisition generally leads to complete proficiency, SLA outcomes vary significantly among individuals. Some learners achieve near-native fluency, while others retain a strong accent or make persistent grammatical errors. This variability has led researchers to explore different theories to explain how second languages are acquired and why some learners are more successful than others.

One of the earliest theories of SLA is the behaviorist perspective, which was popularized by B.F. Skinner in the mid-20th century. According to this theory, language learning is based on habit formation, where learners acquire linguistic structures through imitation, repetition, and reinforcement. In this view, correct language use is reinforced through positive feedback, while incorrect forms are discouraged. While behaviorism explains certain aspects of language learning, such as vocabulary acquisition and pronunciation, it fails to account for the creative use of language. Learners often produce novel sentences they have never heard before, which suggests that language learning involves more than mere repetition and reinforcement. This limitation led to the emergence of the innatist perspective, spearheaded by Noam Chomsky.

Chomsky's theory of Universal Grammar (UG) argues that humans possess an innate capacity for language acquisition. He proposed that all languages share fundamental grammatical principles and that learners are born with an inherent ability to acquire language. In SLA, the UG hypothesis suggests that second language learners may still have access

1. Foundations of Second Language Acquisition M. Samsul A. Afandi Second Language Acquisition

2. Name : M. Samsul A. Afandi Class : 4A Birthday : December 26 Hobby : Photograph, Book Me

3. TABLE OF CONTENTS 01 The World of Second Languages 02 The Nature of Language Learning 03 L1 vs. L2 Learning 04 The Logical Problem of Language Learning 05 Frameworks for Studying SLA

4. INTRODUCTION Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is the process by which people learn a language other than their native one. Understanding SLA helps in language teaching, learning, and research. This presentation covers the fundamental concepts, including learning processes, differences between L1 and L2, and various theoretical perspectives.

5. The World of Second Languages 01

6. The World of Second Languages Global distribution of L1 and L2 speakers : Some languages are spoken more widely as second languages than as first languages. Challenges in collecting linguistic data : Many factors, such as political issues and self-reporting biases, affect accurate data collection. Multilingualism is common worldwide : Many individuals and societies use multiple languages daily Differences between L1 and L2 : First languages are acquired naturally, whereas second languages often require structured learning.

7. The Nature of Language Learning 02

8. The Nature of Language Learning Innate capacity for language learning : Humans are born with the ability to acquire language naturally. Role of social experience in acquisition : Interaction with speakers in meaningful contexts enhances learning. Differences between formal and informal learning : Classroom instruction differs from learning through immersion in real-world situations.

9. L1 vs. L2 Learning 03

10. Initial State: L1 is acquired naturally from birth, while L2 learning depends on age, exposure, and motivation. Processes: SLA involves cognitive functions (memory, problem-solving), social influences (peer interaction), and environmental exposure (immersion, structured teaching). Conditions for learning: Factors such as quality of input, opportunities for interaction, and personal motivation affect success in acquiring an L2. Intermediate States: Learners progress through different developmental stages before reaching proficiency.

11. The Logical Problem of Language Learning 04

12. Poverty of the Stimulus Constraints & Principles Certain grammatical structures seem to be universally present in all languages. Universal Patterns Stages of language development are similar across different languages and learners. Children acquire complex grammar structures without explicit instruction, suggesting innate linguistic knowledge.

13. Frameworks for Studying SLA 05

14. Frameworks for Studying SLA Linguistic Approach Psychological Approach Social Approach Internal Focus : Examines how grammar and syntax are structured in different languages. External Focus : Looks at how language functions in real-world communication. Brain functions in language acquisition: Studies neurological and cognitive mechanisms behind learning. Learning processes, cognitive strategies, individual differences: Investigates how memory, attention, and motivation affect SLA. Microsocial: Examines interactions at the individual and group levels, including identity formation and language choices. Macrosocial: Explores cultural, political, and economic factors that shape language learning environments.

15. SLA involves multiple disciplines : Linguistic, Psychological, and Social perspectives all contribute to understanding how languages are learned. Chapter Summary L1 and L2 acquisition share similarities but differ in processes : While both involve cognitive and social factors, L2 acquisition is more variable. Several theoretical frameworks contribute to SLA research : Different perspectives provide unique insights into language learning. SLA success depends on cognitive, social, and contextual factors : Learning outcomes are influenced by motivation, exposure, and learning environments.

16. Discussion Questions