How does age influence language learning?
influences the success of language aquisition
influences the learners approach to conscious learning
learners aged 8 show highest rate of learning
What does the Critical Hypothesis point out?
humans are genetically programmed to aquire certain skills at specific times in life
Children rely on memory-based processes whereas adults L2 learning is more charaterized by rule-based learning
Commom featrues of successful adult learners:
intensity of language use
intrinsic motivation for learning
Later learners compensate for lack of plasticity in procedual memory by relying more heavily on declaritve metalinguistic knowledge
How do you recognise if someone has a Language Aptitude?
MLAT (modern language aptitude test)
standardized test designed to measure a person's ability to learn foreign languages.
item tests: grammatical sensitivity ( ability to recognise functions of linguistic part in sentences), phonetic encoding ability, memory capacity
Skehans model of language aptitude
What is working memory?
It refers to mental functions responsible for storing and manipulating information temporarily. Provides the interface between long-term memory and action
The six learning strategies
Cognitive strategy
enables learners to manipulate the language material in direct ways
Examples: analysis, note-taking, summerazing,..
Metacognitive strategy
employed for managing the learning process overall
Examples: identifying one´s own learning style, planing for an L2 task, gathering and organising materials
memory-related stragedy
link on L2 item or concept with another
Example: work with acronyms, rhyming,…
compensatory strategy
help learners make up for missing knowledge
Example:
using synonyms, gestures
guessing from context
affective strategy
help learners control their emotions, attitudes, motivation, values
example:
identifying mood
talking about feelings
social strategy
help learners work with others / understand the target culture and language
asking questions, for clarification, for help
Exploring cultural and social norms
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