Background to Language Learning Flashcards
6 cards from real TKT practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 6 Background to Language Learning flashcards as text
A learner is studying English because they want to travel to the UK and interact with locals to understand their culture. Which type of motivation is this learner primarily demonstrating?
Answer: Integrative motivation
Integrative motivation refers to the desire to learn a language to connect with the culture and people of the community that speaks it. This learner's goal is to interact with locals and understand their culture, which is a clear example of integrative motivation.
Which of the following statements best describes a key difference between L1 (first language) and L2 (second language) learning contexts?
Answer: L2 learners typically have significantly less exposure to the target language than L1 learners.
A primary difference between L1 and L2 learning is the amount of exposure. L1 learners are immersed in their language continuously from birth, whereas L2 learners, especially in a classroom setting, have limited and structured exposure, often only for a few hours a week.
A teacher notices that a student learns new vocabulary best by creating and using flashcards with pictures and words. According to the VAK model, this student likely has a preference for which learning style?
Answer: Visual
The VAK model categorizes learning styles as Visual, Auditory, and Kinaesthetic. A visual learner prefers to see information, using tools like pictures, diagrams, and written text to learn effectively. Creating and using flashcards with images and words directly appeals to this style.
The concept of 'learner autonomy' in language learning refers to the learner's ability to:
Answer: take responsibility for and control of their own learning.
Learner autonomy, a key concept in modern language teaching, is defined as the learner's ability and willingness to take charge of their own learning. This involves making decisions about what to learn, how to learn it, and how to evaluate their progress.
According to Stephen Krashen's Monitor Model, the 'monitor' is the part of the learner's mind that:
Answer: uses consciously learned rules to edit and correct language output.
In Krashen's theory, the 'monitor' is the editor. It uses the consciously 'learned' system to check and correct the utterances produced by the subconsciously 'acquired' system. Its use is limited and requires time, focus on form, and knowledge of the rule.
A manager is learning English to get a promotion at her international company. She finds the lessons difficult but persists because she knows it is necessary for her career advancement. This is a primary example of:
Answer: Instrumental motivation
Instrumental motivation is when a person learns a language for a practical or utilitarian purpose, such as getting a better job, passing an exam, or fulfilling a requirement. The manager's goal is career advancement, which makes her motivation instrumental.