SLA Theories and Quiz

SLA Theories in a Nutshell

Understanding How We Acquire a Second Language

Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is a fascinating field with many theories. Here are seven key theories that help explain how people learn a language that is not their native tongue. Click "Next" to begin the lesson.

1. Semantic Theory

This theory states that humans acquire languages by acquiring ways to make meaning. Meaning can be broken down into three types: lexical meaning (dictionary definitions), grammatical meaning (word-level elements like plurals), and pragmatic meaning (meaning in a specific context).

2. Socio-cultural Theory

Developed by Lev Vygotsky, this theory emphasizes the role of social interaction in learning. A key concept is the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD), which is the space between what a learner can do on their own and what they can achieve with help from a more knowledgeable person.

3. Universal Grammar (UG)

Noam Chomsky proposed that humans have an innate ability to learn languages, suggesting a universal, underlying set of grammatical rules. This innate ability is often referred to as a Language Acquisition Device (LAD).

4. Input Hypothesis

Stephen Krashen's theory posits that students acquire a second language by understanding input. This is most effective when the input is comprehensible, meaning it is slightly above the student's current level (i+1).

5. Noticing Hypothesis

Richard Schmidt argued that input does not become knowledge unless it is noticed by the learner. Learners must pay attention to specific aspects of the language to acquire them. Noticing is considered the essential starting point for acquisition.

6. Output Hypothesis

Developed by Merrill Swain, this theory emphasizes the importance of language production (speaking and writing). Learners can discover gaps in their knowledge by producing language, which then motivates them to improve and correct their output.

7. Interaction Hypothesis

Proposed by Michael Long, this theory states that language acquisition requires interaction. Through meaningful communication and the negotiation of meaning, learners receive the necessary comprehensible input, opportunities for output, and corrective feedback.

Quiz: Second Language Acquisition Theories

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