Key Terms in Second Language Acquisition

According to the authors, what is a “second language”?

• Any language learned after early childhood

• A language learned only for academic or professional purposes

• A language learned before the first language

• A language learned in a formal classroom setting

What is “simultaneous bilingualism”?

• Learning two languages at the same time from birth

• Acquiring one language after mastering another

• Learning a new language exclusively in adulthood

• Learning a language only for communication in a specific context

Which of the following characteristics define a good theory according to this text?

• It’s simple and easily understood by beginners

• It offers a clear explanation, makes predictions, and is testable

• It emphasizes immediate practical application

• It avoids complex concepts or terminology

What is “competence” in the context of second language learning?

• A learner’s ability to use language in practical settings

• A learner’s subconscious understanding of a language’s rules and structure

• The accuracy of pronunciation in speaking tasks

• The fluency achieved by consistent practice

How is “performance” defined by the authors?

• The idealized understanding of language structure and grammar

• The ability to learn multiple languages quickly

• The actual use of language in real-life situations, affected by external factors

• The learning rate and retention speed of new vocabulary

Which term describes the evolving system a learner constructs when acquiring a new language, often mixing L1 and L2 elements?

• Fossilization

• Interlanguage

• Performance

• Communicative Competence

What is the “Affective Filter”?

• The internal motivation that drives language acquisition

• Emotional barriers like anxiety and stress that can hinder language learning

• The process of filtering out unnecessary vocabulary

• The tendency to overuse memorization strategies

“Fossilization” refers to:

• Mastery of a language without further need for improvement

• The point at which incorrect language forms become fixed and resistant to correction

• The beginning stages of language learning

• The process of adopting native-like pronunciation

What does “Comprehensible Input” mean in second language learning?

• Language input that is entirely understandable without any gaps

• Language input that is slightly above the learner’s current level but still understandable

• Language input restricted to basic vocabulary and grammar

• The amount of language input provided in a single lesson

According to the socio-cultural view, which of the following best supports language learning?

• Independent grammar drills and memorization

• Engaging in social interactions within meaningful cultural contexts

• Isolated study sessions focused on vocabulary retention

• Translating sentences from the learner’s first language