b1 Questions Second Language Acquisition Theories Quiz

What is the term for the non-conscious acquisition of languages through exposure?

• Instruction

• Teaching

• Learning

• Acquisition

Answer explanation

The term 'Acquisition' refers to the non-conscious process of learning languages through exposure, distinguishing it from 'Learning,' which often involves conscious effort and instruction.

Who developed the concept of interlanguage?

• Selinker

• Chomsky

• Krashen

• Long

Answer explanation

The concept of interlanguage, which describes the evolving linguistic system of second language learners, was developed by Larry Selinker. His work highlighted how learners create a unique language system during the acquisition process.

What does the noticing hypothesis emphasize in language acquisition?

• The significance of feedback

• The need for interaction

• The role of errors in learning

• The importance of explicit instruction

Answer explanation

The noticing hypothesis highlights that learners must recognize and reflect on their errors to facilitate language acquisition, making 'the role of errors in learning' the correct choice.

According to Krashen, what is the primary source of language acquisition?

• Explicit learning

• Feedback from peers

• Formal instruction

• Comprehensible input

Answer explanation

According to Krashen, the primary source of language acquisition is 'comprehensible input.' This refers to language that learners can understand, which is crucial for effective language development.

What is the U-shaped pattern of development in interlanguage?

• A regression and then improvement in language use

• A constant level of proficiency

• A linear progression of language skills

• A random pattern of language acquisition

Answer explanation

The U-shaped pattern in interlanguage refers to a phase where learners initially show improvement, then regress in their language use before ultimately improving again. Thus, the correct choice is 'A regression and then improvement in language use'.

What does the teachability hypothesis suggest?

• All learners acquire language in the same order

• Learning can occur without any input

• Learners must be developmentally ready to acquire new structures

• Instruction is always effective

Answer explanation

The teachability hypothesis posits that learners need to be developmentally ready to acquire new language structures, meaning that readiness is crucial for effective language learning.

Which of the following is NOT a key ingredient for successful language acquisition?

• Input

• Output

• Feedback

• Translation

Answer explanation

Translation is not a key ingredient for successful language acquisition. Instead, effective language learning relies on input (exposure to the language), output (practice using the language), and feedback (guidance on language use).

What is the main focus of the strong interface paradigm?

• Learning is purely a conscious process

• Explicit knowledge can become implicit through practice

• Explicit knowledge cannot aid acquisition

• Input is irrelevant to language learning

Answer explanation

The strong interface paradigm emphasizes that explicit knowledge, gained through instruction, can be transformed into implicit knowledge through practice, enhancing language acquisition.

What does the term 'fossilization' refer to in language learning?

• The natural progression of language skills

• The process of acquiring new vocabulary

• The stagnation of language development

• The ability to speak fluently

Answer explanation

In language learning, 'fossilization' refers to the stagnation of language development, where learners stop progressing and retain errors in their language use, preventing further improvement.

Which hypothesis posits that effective variables like anxiety can hinder language acquisition?

• Effective filter hypothesis

• Input hypothesis

• Monitor hypothesis

• Natural order hypothesis

Answer explanation

The effective filter hypothesis suggests that emotional variables, such as anxiety, can obstruct language acquisition by preventing learners from fully engaging with the input, making it harder to learn effectively.