PSY274H5 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: Second-Language Acquisition, Principles And Parameters
Document Summary
The use of the word acquiring in one case and learning in the other is not accidental. Evidence suggests that cognitive faculties employ in second language learning are distinct from those employed in first language acquisition. First language acquisition takes place in early childhood (usually by 5) and typically cannot take place after that critical period: second language learning proceeds more quickly with people who have a high proficiency in their first language. The complexity of the input affects second language learning but not first language acquisition: first language acquisition proceeds at the same rate whether or not adults simplify their language. Practice is important for second language learning but not so much for first language acquisition: even very quiet children learn language at an ordinary rate. Second language learning proceeds more quickly if the target language is used as the medium of instruction. It can help if the language is a little bit slower and less complex initially.
