CLAD Theories of Language Acquisition 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is 'interlanguage,' a concept developed by Larry Selinker?
- A creole language formed between two communities
- A learner's evolving linguistic system that lies between L1 and target language (Correct answer)
- The period of silence before a learner begins speaking
- A bilingual education program model
Correct answer: A learner's evolving linguistic system that lies between L1 and target language
Interlanguage is the dynamic, rule-governed linguistic system that second language learners develop as they progress toward target language proficiency.
Question 2: According to the Natural Order Hypothesis, grammatical morphemes are acquired:
- In the same order as they are taught in formal instruction
- In a predictable, universal sequence regardless of the learner's L1 (Correct answer)
- According to the learner's age and cognitive development
- Randomly, depending on the quality of input received
Correct answer: In a predictable, universal sequence regardless of the learner's L1
The Natural Order Hypothesis states that learners acquire grammatical structures in a consistent, predictable order that is not influenced by formal instruction.
Question 3: The concept of 'scaffolding,' derived from Vygotsky's work, is best described as:
- Building a rigid sequence of grammar rules for students to memorize
- Providing temporary, adjustable support to help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current ability (Correct answer)
- Offering praise and rewards for correct language use
- Testing students frequently to measure their language growth
Correct answer: Providing temporary, adjustable support to help learners accomplish tasks beyond their current ability
Scaffolding refers to the temporary, supportive frameworks provided by teachers or peers that are gradually removed as the learner becomes more capable.
Question 4: Which stage of Krashen's second language acquisition model is characterized by learners being silent and absorbing input before producing language?
- Early production stage
- Pre-production (Silent) period (Correct answer)
- Intermediate fluency stage
- Advanced fluency stage
Correct answer: Pre-production (Silent) period
The pre-production or silent period is a natural stage where learners build receptive competence before they are ready to produce language.
Question 5: Jim Cummins' distinction between BICS and CALP helps educators understand that:
- Bilingual students should be assessed only in their home language
- Social language fluency does not predict academic language proficiency (Correct answer)
- Students who speak English socially are ready for grade-level academic content without support
- CALP is developed before BICS in most language learners
Correct answer: Social language fluency does not predict academic language proficiency
BICS (Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills) develops faster than CALP (Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency), which can take 5–7 years to develop.
Question 6: The 'Output Hypothesis,' proposed by Merrill Swain, argues that language production is important for acquisition because it:
- Allows learners to receive correction from native speakers
- Forces learners to notice gaps in their knowledge and refine their interlanguage (Correct answer)
- Builds vocabulary through repetitive use of target structures
- Replaces the need for comprehensible input once learners are fluent
Correct answer: Forces learners to notice gaps in their knowledge and refine their interlanguage
Swain's Output Hypothesis posits that producing language (speaking/writing) pushes learners to notice what they do not know and prompts them to seek more input.
Question 7: Which approach to language teaching most directly aligns with Vygotsky's sociocultural theory?
- Audiolingual method focusing on drills and repetition
- Collaborative, dialogue-based learning with expert support (Correct answer)
- Grammar-translation emphasizing written texts
- Direct instruction with immediate error correction
Correct answer: Collaborative, dialogue-based learning with expert support
Sociocultural theory supports collaborative, dialogic instruction where more knowledgeable others assist learners within the ZPD.
CLAD Theories of Language Acquisition 3
What is 'interlanguage,' a concept developed by Larry Selinker?