Stephen Krashen's Theory of Second Language Acquisition Quiz

According to Stephen Krashen, which of the following is crucial for the acquisition of language?

• Conscious grammatical rules

• Tedious drill

• Meaningful interaction in the target language

• Formal instruction

Answer explanation

According to Stephen Krashen, meaningful interaction in the target language is crucial for language acquisition.

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TESOL 1 - Second language acquisition theory

What is the 'acquired system' in Krashen's theory of second language acquisition?

• The product of formal instruction

• The result of a subconscious process similar to children acquiring their first language

• The conscious process of learning grammar rules

• The role of the 'monitor' or the 'editor'

Answer explanation

The 'acquired system' in Krashen's theory refers to the result of a subconscious process similar to children acquiring their first language.

According to Krashen, what is the role of the 'monitor' in second language performance?

• To initiate utterances in the second language

• To perform the role of the 'editor' when three specific conditions are met

• To focus on form or think about correctness

• To give speech a more 'polished' appearance

Answer explanation

The 'monitor' in second language performance focuses on correctness and gives speech a more 'polished' appearance.

What does the Input hypothesis in Krashen's theory explain?

• The role of 'affective variables' in second language acquisition

• The relationship between acquisition and learning

• How the learner acquires a second language

• The natural order of language acquisition

Answer explanation

The Input hypothesis in Krashen's theory explains how the learner acquires a second language.

According to the Affective Filter hypothesis, what can raise the affective filter and prevent language acquisition?

• High motivation and self-confidence

• Anxiety due to overcorrection or being forced to speak in a new language without proper supports

• An environment which is highly positive in which language learners are made to feel welcome

• Low motivation and self-esteem

Answer explanation

According to the Affective Filter hypothesis, anxiety due to overcorrection or being forced to speak in a new language without proper supports can raise the affective filter and prevent language acquisition.

What does the Natural Order hypothesis in Krashen's theory suggest?

• The role of formal grammar in language appreciation

• The order in which grammatical structures are taught in language programs

• The existence of a predictable order in the acquisition of grammatical structures

• The importance of grammatical sequencing in language acquisition

Answer explanation

The Natural Order hypothesis suggests a predictable order in acquiring grammatical structures.

According to Krashen, when can the teaching of grammar result in language acquisition?

• When the target language is not used as a medium of instruction

• When the students are not interested in the subject

• When the students are interested in the subject and the target language is used as a medium of instruction

• When the teacher is not skillful enough to present explanations in the target language

Answer explanation

According to Krashen, language acquisition occurs when students are interested in the subject and the target language is used as a medium of instruction.

What is the only instance in which the teaching of grammar can result in language acquisition according to Krashen?

• When the students are already familiar with the language

• When the students are not interested in the subject

• When the target language is not used as a medium of instruction

• When the teacher is not skillful enough to present explanations in the target language

Answer explanation

According to Krashen, language acquisition through grammar teaching is only possible when students are already familiar with the language.