"Does the first language cause interference?" The biggest question in my mind at this time and the first one VanPatten answers in his FAQ chapter. As is the case with most academic answers, he explains that "yes and no," the first language can be a crutch, but that we all go through the same process to learn our second language, no matter what. The big question, though, is also hard to completely answer through research as it is "slippery" to test how much of the L1 transfers to aid in learning the L2.
We spoke about the second question, "What about the use of the first language in the classroom?" in class. It's a balance and, of course, social implications must be examined.
This is one concept behind language acquisition that is most fascinating to me: "It is possible, then, that the differences we see between L1 and L2 acquisition are also attributable to external factors and not to internal processes." How much of our perspective (cultural and linguistic) plays a role in our ability to become proficient in an L2?
I've often operated under the assumption that non-romance languages would be harder for me to learn, considering English has some romance language influence. It was humbling to realize and accept that, "Every language has some things that kids get right away and other things that even school-aged kids mess up, but as a whole no language can be considered easier or harder."
Obviously, I have not been succinct, but these were my favorite parts of the chapter.
Your blog makes me geek out with my love of language, especially ELL. Glad I found you! :]
ReplyDeleteThank you! I'm taking a summer class right now, which is why most of this is in response to readings. But hang on tight and I should be able to add real world content!
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