Second Language Acquisition Quiz

Which of the following is not discussed as part of the frameworks for SLA?

• Processibility Theory

• Sociocultural Perspective

• Cognitive Theory

• Input Processing

Answer explanation

Cognitive Theory is not typically included in the frameworks for Second Language Acquisition (SLA). The other options, such as Processibility Theory, Sociocultural Perspective, and Input Processing, are all discussed in the reading, so make sure you have a general understanding of each.

What do Behaviorism, Innatism, and Connectionism say about 2nd language acquisition?

• They all agree that language is learned through imitation.

• They suggest different mechanisms for language learning, such as habit formation, innate ability, and neural connections.

• They propose that language learning is impossible after a certain age.

• They all emphasize the importance of vocabulary over grammar.

Answer explanation

Behaviorism focuses on habit formation through reinforcement, Innatism emphasizes innate language abilities, and Connectionism highlights neural connections. Thus, they suggest different mechanisms for language learning.

How does "acquisition" happen according to Krashen?

• Through memorization of frequently heard words and phrases

• Through exposure to input slightly beyond current understanding

• Through repetition and imitation

• Through translation, including literary and spoken texts

Answer explanation

According to Krashen, acquisition occurs through exposure to input that is slightly beyond current understanding, allowing learners to gradually expand their knowledge and skills. This method contrasts with memorization, repetition, or translation.

According to Krashen, what is the "filter" that acts as a barrier to acquisition?

• Lack of vocabulary

• Nervousness and stress

• Poor grammar

• Limited exposure

Answer explanation

According to Krashen, nervousness and stress can hinder learning by creating mental blocks, making it difficult to absorb new information. This emotional filter acts as a barrier to acquisition, unlike vocabulary or grammar, which are skills that can be improved.

What does the Noticing Hypothesis argue about linguistic features?

• They are always noticed by learners.

• They are irrelevant to language learning.

• They must be noticed to be internalized.

• They are automatically internalized.

Answer explanation

The Noticing Hypothesis posits that learners must consciously notice linguistic features for them to be internalized. This means that without awareness, these features cannot be effectively learned.

What does Input Processing suggest about the use of resources by learners?

• Learners have abundant resources.

• Learners use resources to focus on meaning.

• Learners ignore resources entirely.

• Learners focus on resources for structure.

Answer explanation

Input Processing indicates that learners utilize resources primarily to understand and derive meaning from the content, rather than focusing solely on structure or ignoring resources altogether.

What is the purpose of trying to talk (output) according to the Output Hypothesis?

• To memorize vocabulary.

• To realize what we are lacking and learn new things.

• To perfect pronunciation.

• To avoid mistakes.

Answer explanation

The Output Hypothesis suggests that speaking helps learners identify gaps in their knowledge, prompting them to learn new concepts and improve their language skills. Thus, the correct answer is to realize what we are lacking and learn new things.

What is a key idea in the Sociocultural Perspective?

• Language is learned in isolation.

• Language learning is a passive process.

• Interaction is crucial for learning.

• Language is genetically encoded.

Answer explanation

The Sociocultural Perspective emphasizes that interaction with others is essential for effective language learning, contrasting with the idea that language can be learned in isolation or passively.

What does Contrastive Analysis compare and contrast?

• Similarities and differences between two languages

• Similarities and differences in first and second language acquisition

• Sociolinguistic conventions between two cultures

• the nature of language and cognition

Answer explanation

Contrastive Analysis focuses on comparing and contrasting two languages to identify their similarities and differences. This view assumes that learners acquisition can occur when learners focus on the aspects of the two languages that differ.