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🧠 UNIT 1 – First Language Development
5 Theories of First Language Development Understanding how children acquire their first language is essential for educators and language professionals. Several theories have shaped our understanding of this process, each offering unique insights into how language emerges, develops, and is influenced by internal and external factors. 1. Behaviorism – B.F. Skinner Language is learned through imitation, repetition, and reinforcement. Children repeat words they hear and are rewarded for correct usage. Emphasis on stimulus-response patterns. 🎥 Suggested video: https://youtu.be/VvOIbDI2fro?si=fgDXkTtG7nIaYhzH 2. Innatism – Noam Chomsky Humans are born with a Language Acquisition Device (LAD) . Language is an innate biological ability. Children generate novel sentences they’ve never heard before. 3. Cognitivism – Jean Piaget Sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years): Infants and toddlers learn about the world through their sens...
🌍 UNIT 2 – Bilingual and Second Language Acquisition
In this section, we explore how people acquire more than one language—either from birth or later in life. Understanding the differences between simultaneous and sequential acquisition helps us appreciate the diversity of language learning experiences and informs how we support learners in the classroom. UNIT 2.1 Simultaneous Acquisition Occurs when a child learns two languages at the same time from birth. Both languages are acquired naturally through interaction with caregivers and the environment. Common in bilingual households or multilingual communities. 🎥 Suggested video: TED-Ed – The Benefits of a Bilingual Brain UNIT 2.2 Sequential Acquisition Happens when a second language is learned after the first is already established. Often occurs in school settings or after migration. Learners may go through a silent period, transfer structures from L1, and develop interlanguage. 📝 Interactive activity: https://docs.goog...
🌟 UNIT 3 – Factors in Second Language Acquisition
Second language acquisition (SLA) is influenced by a wide range of factors. These can be internal , such as age and motivation, or external , like the learning context and exposure to the language. Understanding these elements helps teachers adapt instruction and support learners more effectively. UNIT 3.1 Internal Factors Key elements: Age: Younger learners may acquire pronunciation more easily, while older learners often grasp grammar faster. Aptitude: Natural ability to learn languages varies among individuals. Motivation: Intrinsic (personal interest) or extrinsic (grades, career) motivation drives effort. Attitudes: Positive attitudes toward the language and culture enhance learning. Learning styles: Visual, auditory, kinesthetic preferences affect howlearners absorb information. https://www.learningstylequiz.com/ UNIT 3.2 External Factors Key elements: Learning context: Formal (classroom) vs. informal (daily life) set...
🎓 UNIT 4 – Implications for Teaching and Learning a Second Language
Understanding how languages are acquired helps teachers make informed decisions in the classroom. This unit bridges theory and practice, showing how SLA insights can shape effective, inclusive, and engaging language instruction. UNIT 4.1 Pedagogical Implications Key ideas: Teachers should understand how learners acquire and process language differently. Instruction must be adapted to learners’ age , motivation , and learning styles . Effective teaching includes comprehensible input , interaction , and feedback . 🧩 Activity idea: https://es.educaplay.com/recursos-educativos/26785316-krashen_s_input_hypothesis_matching_core_ideas.html UNIT 4.2 Practical Applications Tips for Teachers: Use authentic materials (menus, videos, songs) to connect language with real life. Encourage output through role plays, storytelling, and group projects. Provide corrective feedback that is supportive and cons...