Second Language Acquisition

Teaching the ESOL Student in the Mainstream Classroom

Module 2 – Part 1

Contents:

Language Acquisition Theory

Noam ChomskyStephen KrashenJim Cummins

Language Acquisition Theory:

The linguists who have had the most influence in language acquisition theory are Noam Chomsky, Stephen Krashen, and Jim Cummins.

Chomsky’s theories involve the idea that some language learning ability is innate – a part of the human mind. Krashen emphasizes the social and interpersonal aspects of language. The distinction between interpersonal and academic language are the basis of Cummins’ work.

In this segment, we will learn more about these three linguists and their contributions to language acquisition theory.

Language Acquisition Theory:Noam Chomsky

PhD in Linguistics from University of Pennsylvania (1955)

Joined Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in 1955

Writes and lectures on linguistics, philosophy, intellectual history, contemporary issues, international affairs and U.S. foreign policy.

Noam Chomsky

Most influential linguist of the 20th century Some aspects of language are innate – a certain

“Universal Grammar” for language learning exists within the brain

Universal Grammar guides language development in any language

Universal Grammar is supported by observations including:

– All human cultures have complex language – Children learn language without formal teaching– Children not exposed to language create their own– Results of traumatic brain injuries

Summary - Chomsky

Key Points:

Some language ability is innate. Universal Grammar exists in all languages.

Language Acquisition Theory:Stephen Krashen

Professor Emeritus, University of Southern California

Linguist specializing in theories of language acquisition and development

Research involving non-English and bilingual language acquisition

Widely accepted theory of second language acquisition

Stephen Krashen

Krashen’s theory of second language acquisition includes five main hypotheses:

Acquisition-Learning HypothesisMonitor HypothesisNatural Order HypothesisInput HypothesisAffective Filter Hypothesis

Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis

Addresses two ways of gaining knowledge of a second language

Learning is knowing about a language. It involves a traditional approach of rules of grammar, lists of new vocabulary words, etc. which requires a conscious effort.

Acquisition is equivalent to using language for real communication. It is more like absorbing – an unconscious effort similar to the process seen in an infant and young child..

Monitor Hypothesis

Language fluency comes from what we have acquired in natural communication situations.

Formal knowledge of language (rules) does not create fluency.

Formal knowledge allows language learners to plan and monitor (check and make corrections) language use when speaking.

Natural Order Hypothesis

Acquisition of grammar follows a “natural order” that is predictable.

Natural order seems to be independent of age, first language, culture, etc.

Krashen does not recommend a programmed approach when acquisition in the goal.

Input Hypothesis

Relates to acquisition, not learning. Learner makes progress along the natural

order when exposed to “input” a step beyond the current stage.

Comprehensible Input = i+1 = acquisition

Affective Filter Hypothesis

The emotions of a language learner can interfere or assist with language acquisition.

Public speaking can create anxiety, anger, and embarrassment.

Negative emotions can create a “filter” that blocks new information.

Classrooms need to be engaging and non-threatening to increase motivation and encourage risk taking.

Summary - Krashen

Key Points:

Difference between language acquisition and language learning

Study of grammar not effective in acquisition

Language Acquisition Theory:Jim Cummins

Born in Dublin, Ireland Student of bilingual education

(Irish/English) PhD from University of Alberta in

Edmonton focused on bilingualism, cognition, and bilingual education

Currently professor in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Curriculum in the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education of the University of Toronto

Research focused on bilingualism, educational barriers, language learning, and special education

Jim Cummins

Distinguishes between interpersonal communication skills and cognitive academic language

Two – five years to develop interpersonal communication skills

Four – seven years to develop cognitive academic language

Jim Cummins

Two types of communication – Context-embedded Communication and Context-reduced Communication

Context-embedded: provides support through visuals, gestures, tone of voice

Content-reduced: fewer clues, telephone, email, notes

Jim Cummins

Two types of cognitive demands – cognitively undemanding communication and cognitively demanding communication

Cognitively undemanding – minimal abstract

thinking, social conversation, yes/no questions

Cognitively demanding – requires analyzing and synthesizing, abstract concepts, academic content, and lecture

Summary - Cummins

Key Points:

Language acquisition involves many complex levels of usage and understanding

Understanding these concepts can help teachers develop instructional strategies for a variety of language uses

Bibliography

Baker, Colin. (2003). An Advocate for Tolerance: A Biography of Jim Cummins. The Bilingual Family Newsletter. http://http://www.multilingual-matters.com/multi/pdf/family_newsletter.pdf. Online.

Center for Applied Linguistics. (2000). Enhancing English Language Learning in Elementary Classrooms. Delta Publishing Company.

Mason, T. (unknown). Didactics 10-Critique of Krashen VI. IUFM de Versailles. http://perso.club-internet.fr/tmason/WebPages/LangTeach/Licence/CM/OldLectures/L10_Monitor.htm. Online.

Reed, B. & Railsback, J. (2003). Strategies and Resources for Mainstream Teachers of English Language Learners. Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory. http://www.nwrel.org/request/2003may/ell.pdf. Online.

Schütz, Ricardo. (2002). Stephen Krashen's Theory of Second Language Acquisition. English Made in Brazil http://www.sk.com.br/sk-krash.html. Online.

Unknown. (2003). Bilingual Verbal Ability Tests – Author Biography. Riverside Publishing Company. http://riverpub.com/products/clinical/bvat/cumm.html. Online.

Unknown. (2002). Noam Chomsky Biography. MIT Linguistics. http://web.mit.edu/linguistics/www/biography/noambio.html. Online.