SEI Prep Chapter 1 - SLA Theories and Concepts

Front

What does SLA stand for?

Back

Second Language Acquisition

Front

What is the main focus of SLA theory?

Back

Understanding how people acquire a second language and applying that understanding to teaching.

Front

Name the three theorists covered in this lesson.

Back

Stephen Krashen, Jim Cummins, Lev Vygotsky

Front

What is Krashen's Comprehensible Input hypothesis?

Back

Language is acquired when learners understand input that is slightly above their current level (i+1).

Front

What does Krashen's Affective Filter hypothesis explain?

Back

Emotional factors like anxiety and motivation can block or facilitate language acquisition.

Front

What does 'i+1' refer to?

Back

Input that is just slightly more advanced than the learner's current language level.

Front

What is the Natural Order Hypothesis?

Back

Language structures are acquired in a predictable order, regardless of explicit instruction.

Front

What is the Monitor Hypothesis?

Back

Learners use conscious knowledge to monitor and edit their speech, not to generate fluent language.

Front

What is the difference between acquisition and learning in Krashen’s theory?

Back

Acquisition is unconscious and natural; learning is conscious and formal.

Front

What are BICS?

Back

Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills – conversational fluency developed in 1–3 years.