7 Great Theories about Language Learning

1. What was Plato’s belief about language acquisition?

• Language is learned through repetition and practice.

• Language is an innate human ability.

• Language is acquired solely through environmental influence.

• Language is developed through social interactions.

2. What is the main idea behind Descartes’ view of language learning?

• Language is a product of conditioning and external stimuli.

• Language learning is difficult and requires intense study.

• Language is innate and reflects human rationality.

• Language can only be learned through formal instruction.

3. According to John Locke, how does a person acquire knowledge?

• Through innate ideas present at birth.

• Through sensory experiences and external stimuli.

• Through memorization and repetition.

• Through exposure to a universal grammar.

4. Which of the following best describes Skinner’s behaviorist theory?

• Language learning occurs through innate structures in the brain.

• Language acquisition is a product of operant and classical conditioning.

• Language learning happens naturally without external influence.

• Language is acquired through logical reasoning and creativity.

5. Noam Chomsky’s theory of Universal Grammar suggests that:

• Language is acquired through environmental exposure alone.

• Every language has completely different grammatical structures.

• Humans are born with an innate ability to understand grammar.

• Language learning requires direct teaching of grammar rules.

6. What does Schumann’s Acculturation Model focus on?

• The social and psychological factors that affect language learning.

• The importance of grammar rules in language acquisition.

• The natural order in which language structures are learned.

• The role of punishment and reward in learning a language.

7. According to Krashen’s Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis, what is the main difference between acquisition and learning?

• Acquisition is subconscious, while learning is a conscious process.

• Learning happens naturally, while acquisition requires formal education.

• Learning is the only way to become fluent in a new language.

• Acquisition focuses on grammar, while learning focuses on vocabulary.

8. What is the main function of the “monitor” in Krashen’s Monitor Hypothesis?

• To replace the acquired system for language production.

• To correct speech errors before they are spoken.

• To consciously check and correct language output.

• To eliminate the need for language practice.

9. According to the Affective Filter Hypothesis, what can block language acquisition?

• Lack of vocabulary knowledge.

• Exposure to incorrect grammar.

• Negative emotions like anxiety and self-doubt.

• Not having a formal language teacher.

10. In Krashen’s Input Hypothesis, what does “i+1” represent?

• The natural order of language structures.

• The next level of input slightly beyond the learner’s current level.

• A fixed curriculum of grammar lessons.

• The combination of acquisition and learning.