Theme 7. Language acquisition and language learning .pptx

Theme 7. Language acquisition and language learning .pptx

• 1.
  L ANGUAGE ACQUISITION ANDL ANGUAGE LEARNING
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  WHAT IS ALANGUAGE ? WHAT ARE THE FUNCTIONS OF THE LANGUAGE? WHY DO WE LEARN A LANGUAGE? WHAT DO YOU THINK HOW THE LANGUAGE CAN BE ACQUIRED?
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  • “the facultyof articulating words” (Saussure, 1916) • “Language is a purely human and noninstinctive method of communicating ideas, emotions, and desires by means of a system of voluntarily produced symbols” ( Sapir, 1921) • “language as genetic inheritance, a mathematical system, a social fact, the expression of individual identity, the expression of cultural identity, the outcome of dialogic interaction, a social semiotic, the intuitions of native speakers, the sum of attested data, a collection of memorised chunks, a rule-governed discrete combinatory system, or electrical activation in a distributed network” (Cook & Seidlhofer, 1995) • “In informal usage, a language is understood as a culturally specific communication system”; “In the varieties of modern linguistics that concern us here, the term “language” is used quite differently to refer to an internal component of the mind/brain” (Hauser, Chomsky and Fitch, 2002) • “A language is a system of meaning – a semiotic system.” (Halliday, 2003: 2) language / laŋ w d / ˈ ɡ ɪ ʒ
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  • “language asa finite system of elements and principles that make it possible for speakers to construct sentences to do particular communicative jobs” (Fasold & Connor-Linton, 2006) • “Language as a tool for communication” (Nunan, 2007) • “Language is foremost a means of communication, and communication almost always takes place within some sort of social context”; “language is a rule-based system of signs” (Amberg & Vause, 2009: 2) • “a communication system composed of arbitrary elements which possess an agreed- upon significance within a community.These elements are connected in rule-governed ways” (Edwards, 2009: 53) • “Unpacking the definition ‘language as a rule-governed discrete combinatory system’, we see that language is a system, a system comprised of discrete segments: phonemes, lexemes, morphemes.”;“Language as social fact” (Larsen-Freeman, 2011) • “language, a system of conventional spoken, manual (signed), or written symbols by means of which human beings, as members of a social group and participants in its culture, express themselves.” (Robins and Crystal, 2021)
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  What is LanguageLearning? • Language learning is a fascinating and complex process that involves acquiring a second language beyond your native tongue. It’s a conscious endeavor, often requiring intentional effort and strategic methods to grasp the new language’s structure, syntax, and vocabulary.This process often takes place in a formal setting, such as a classroom. Here, learners engage with the language through structured lessons, guided practice, and regular evaluations. The teacher, the textbooks, and the curriculum play a significant role in shaping the learning experience. • Effective language learning strategies might include memorization, repetition, and even technology-assisted learning.These strategies aim to help learners understand, practice, and eventually master the new language. It’s a journey that can be as rewarding as it is challenging, opening up new ways of thinking and interacting with the world.
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  What is LanguageAcquisition? • Language acquisition, on the other hand, does not require much conscious effort. It’s a process where individuals pick up a language without being explicitly taught. It’s how we all learned our mother tongue – by listening, observing, and mimicking the sounds around us. Imagine a baby, sitting in a crib, cooing and making adorable sounds.These sounds may not mean much to us, but for the little one, it’s the start of an incredible journey – the journey of language acquisition. This is a subconscious process that happens naturally, usually in infants and young children. • It’s a fascinating process that happens without us even realizing it. Interestingly, this process is not just limited to our native languages. It’s also how we can learn second languages.Yes, it may involve a bit more effort and conscious learning, but the subconscious process of language acquisition still plays a crucial role. It’s all about being open, receptive, and having the willingness to make mistakes and learn from them.
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  The American linguistStephen Krashen described the difference between these two terms quite clearly and briefly. Language acquisition refers to the subconscious process of internalizing a language and its rules. In contrast, language learning is the type of conscious language development which often takes place in the foreign language classroom. Research into first language, or L1, acquisition can be very useful when we come to think about how people learn a second language, or L2, effectively. It is also important to remember that there are many factors which influence second language development. Language learning is not a uniform process because people are different and live in diverse environments.
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  Chomsky, the Americanlinguist, has completed a great deal of important research in the field of L1 acquisition since the 1960s. According to Chomsky, although environment does play a role in L1 acquisition, all humans are genetically programmed with a language acquisition device. This brain function enables children to process and order the language that they are exposed to. Chomsky's hypothesis claims that the complex nature of language and its rules would be too difficult for us to acquire if our brains were not equipped with a language processor. It is precisely this capability, known as a universal grammar, which enables any child in any country to learn any first language efficiently, provided that they are given sufficient exposure from birth. Now, let's move on to second language learning. Chomsky has also studied how people learn a second language. His research supports the idea that language is made up of a system of rules. Chomsky believes that all-natural languages contain a common set of central rules.
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  There are alsoother rules, which differ from language to language.The theories developed by Chomsky indicate that when learning a second language, learners find it easier to learn these central rules than the rules which are unique to that particular language. When learners find an L2 rule which isn't a central transferable rule, they will try to understand that rule by using their knowledge of their first language.This can lead to errors through L1 interference.
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  LET`S COMPARE ACQUISITIONAND LEARNING • Distinguishing Between Language Acquisition and Language Learning • While both language acquisition and language learning are essential for grasping a new language, their approaches and outcomes can be distinct: • Nature vs. Nurture:Acquisition is a more natural, intuitive process.Think of it as learning by immersion, where the individual is surrounded by the language and gradually begins to understand and use it. Language learning, however, is nurtured through explicit instruction and structured lessons. • Conscious vs. Subconscious: Learning requires a conscious effort, such as memorizing vocabulary or understanding grammar rules. In contrast, acquisition is more about picking up patterns and nuances subconsciously, without even realizing one is learning.
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  • Formal vs.Informal Setting:While learning often takes place in formal settings like schools or language institutes, acquisition happens in everyday life—through interactions, listening to music, watching shows, or simply being in an environment where the language is spoken. • Error Perspective: In structured learning, errors are often corrected to align with the proper rules and structure of the language. In acquisition, mistakes are seen as a natural part of the process, and through trial and error, the language is refined
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  COULD YOU SHAREYOUR IDEAS WHAT WAYS CAN BE SUCCESSFUL FOR LANGUAGE ACQUISITION?
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  TIPS FOR ACQUIRINGA SECOND LANGUAGE • Immersive Experience: Surround yourself with the language as much as possible.This could be through traveling, living abroad, or joining a community where the target language is spoken frequently. • Consume Media in the Target Language: This is also a super important part of immersion, especially in today’s world. Watch movies, listen to music, and read books in the language you want to acquire. This not only improves your listening skills but also acquaints you with the culture behind the language.
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  • Engage inReal-life Conversations: Instead of just learning from a book, engage in authentic dialogues. This can help you internalize the language and understand its practical use. • Think in the Target Language: Challenge yourself to think in your new language. It can help you shift from translating in your head to thinking directly in the language. • Keep a Diary: Write daily entries in your target language. This practice can help you articulate your thoughts and improve your writing skills. • Be Patient and Persistent: Language acquisition is a marathon, not a sprint. Embrace the journey and remember that making mistakes is part of the learning process. • Use Technology: Language learning apps, online communities, and virtual immersion platforms can be invaluable tools in your acquisition journey.
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  CONCLUSION: LANGUAGE ACQUISITIONVS LANGUAGE LEARNING • The journey of grasping a new language can be seen from two perspectives: acquisition and learning. While language learning is structured, conscious, and often takes place in formal settings, language acquisition is subconscious, immersive, and happens more naturally. • Both approaches have their merits, and for many, a combination of the two can be the most effective way to become proficient in a new language. Recognizing the difference between these methods and tailoring your approach can significantly impact your linguistic journey. • In essence, whether you are in a classroom setting memorizing vocabulary or immersed in a foreign country picking up nuances, the ultimate goal remains the same: to bridge cultures, understand different perspectives, and connect with people from all walks of life.The beauty of language lies not just in the words and grammar but in the ability to communicate, share stories, and build relationships. Whether through learning or acquisition, the adventure of discovering a new language is a rewarding endeavor that enriches our lives in countless ways.
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  QUESTIONING….
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  THANKS FOR YOURATTENTION!