What are language acquisition theories?(5)

5. Affective and Motivational Theories

a. Affective Filter Hypothesis (Krashen)

b. Motivation (Gardner, Dornyei)

Key Idea: Motivation (both intrinsic and extrinsic) plays a key role in language acquisition.
Types of Motivation:

Integrative Motivation: Desire to connect with the culture and community of the target language.
Instrumental Motivation: Learning for practical reasons (e.g., job opportunities).

Implications: Teachers should foster meaningful goals and a supportive classroom environment.

c. Anxiety and Fossilization

Key Idea: High anxiety can hinder learning, and fossilization occurs when incorrect forms become habitual.
Implications: Teachers should create low-anxiety environments and provide corrective feedback sensitively.

6. Critical Period Hypothesis (CPH)

Key Idea: There is a biologically determined “window” during which language acquisition is most effective (usually childhood).
Implications: Younger learners may acquire pronunciation more naturally, but adults can still achieve high proficiency in other areas.

7. Universal Grammar and Parameters

Key Idea: Language learning involves setting parameters in the brain to match the target language based on input.
Implications: Focuses on learners’ innate capacities to internalize grammar rules.

8. Usage-Based Theories

Key Idea: Language acquisition is driven by the frequency and usage of specific forms and constructions.
Implications: Emphasizes extensive exposure to authentic input (e.g., reading and listening) and repeated use in meaningful contexts.

These theories, while often distinct, complement one another in describing the complex and multifaceted nature of language acquisition.