PSY274H5 Chapter Notes - Chapter 3: The Translator, Second-Language Acquisition, First Language
Document Summary
There are important differences btw acquiring a first language a process that happens naturally to any child who is not linguistically deprived and learning a second. Scholars debate whether or not the cognitive faculties that are employed in second language learning are distinct from those employed in first language acquisition, and much of the evidence suggests that they are. Second language learning proceeds more quickly with people who have a high proficiency in their first language. Third, whereas first language acquisition happens without conscious teaching, second language learning generally does not. Thus, the process is distinct: self-confidence, motivation, good self-image, and low anxiety are traits that improve facility in a 2nd language, but none of these traits is important to 1st language acquisition. Fourth, the complexity of the input affects second language learning but not first language acquisition: first language acquisition proceeds at the same rate whether or not adults simplify their language.
