Week 2 SLA Quiz

How do we call a speaker's ability to use two languages for communication?

• Bilingualism

• Multilingualism

• Trilingualism

• Monolingualism

Answer explanation

The ability to use two languages for communication is called bilingualism. Multilingualism refers to using more than two languages, trilingualism specifically means three languages, and monolingualism means using only one language.

What is a supposition or a system of ideas intended to explain something, especially one based on general principles independent of the thing to be explained?

• theory

• idea

• opinion

• hypothesis

Answer explanation

The correct answer is 'theory' because it refers to a system of ideas that explains something based on general principles, distinguishing it from 'idea', 'opinion', and 'hypothesis', which do not fully capture this definition.

What is an interlanguage (IL)?

• A method of teaching grammar rules exclusively.

• A fixed set of vocabulary used in formal writing.

• An interlanguage (IL) is a transitional linguistic system used by language learners.

• A dialect spoken by native speakers of a language.

Answer explanation

An interlanguage (IL) is a transitional linguistic system used by language learners as they progress towards full proficiency in a target language, making it the correct choice among the options provided.

Interlanguage changes all the time but can become fossilised language when the learners do not have the opportunity to improve.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

True. Interlanguage evolves, but if learners lack opportunities to practice and improve, certain errors can become fixed or 'fossilised', hindering their language development.

What is a difference between competence and performance?

• Competence is knowledge of language rules; performance is the actual use of language.

• Competence is the actual use of language; performance is knowledge of language rules.

• Competence is the ability to memorize vocabulary; performance is the ability to read aloud.

• Competence refers to fluency in speaking; performance is limited to writing skills.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that competence refers to the knowledge of language rules, while performance is the actual use of language in practice. This distinction is fundamental in linguistics.

What is a Universal Grammar Theory?

• Universal Grammar Theory suggests that all languages are derived from a single ancient language.

• Universal Grammar Theory claims that language is entirely a cultural construct without innate structures.

• Universal Grammar Theory is the idea that all human languages share a common structural foundation, innate to humans.

• Universal Grammar Theory states that languages are learned solely through imitation.

Answer explanation

Universal Grammar Theory posits that all human languages share an innate structural foundation, suggesting a commonality in language development across cultures, rather than being derived from a single language or learned solely through imitation.

Freeman and Johnson (1998) propose a reconceptualized knowledge-base for language teacher education. Which of the following is NOT one of the three key domains they emphasize?

• The teacher as a learner.

• The pedagogical process.

• The language proficiency of the teacher.

• The social context of schooling.

Answer explanation

Freeman and Johnson (1998) emphasize three key domains: the teacher as a learner, the pedagogical process, and the social context of schooling. The language proficiency of the teacher is not one of these key domains.

What is the primary goal of a second language theory, according to Mitchell et al.?

• To provide guidelines for teaching.

• To describe language performance.

• To explain language learning processes.

• To predict learning success.

Answer explanation

According to Mitchell et al., the primary goal of a second language theory is to explain language learning processes. This focus helps educators understand how learners acquire a new language, guiding effective teaching strategies.

Linguists have traditionally viewed language as a complex communication system which must be analysed on a number oflevels: phonology, syntax, morphology, lexis, semantics, pragmatics, discourse.

• True

• False

Answer explanation

Linguists indeed analyze language across multiple levels, including phonology, syntax, morphology, lexis, semantics, pragmatics, and discourse. Therefore, the statement is true.

What is the difference between “explicit” and “implicit” learning according to Mitchell et al.?

• Explicit learning is formal and conscious, while implicit learning is informal and unconscious.

• Explicit learning only occurs in adults.

• Implicit learning is more effective for older learners.

• Explicit learning is more successful than implicit learning.

Answer explanation

The correct choice highlights that explicit learning is a formal and conscious process, while implicit learning occurs informally and unconsciously, distinguishing the two types of learning effectively.