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UNIT 12 DIFFERENCES BETWEEN L1 AND L2 LEARNING

This unit reflects how we can differentiate how we learned out first language or mother tongue and how we get a second language and primarily it is concerned to the ages and distinct contexts in which languages are learnt.

L1: learners acquire the language since they are babies and develop it through the pass of the life in a natural environment as at home, where the language is achieved in an unconscious way. Later, L1 is learnt in the first time of school programs to higher educational context. In these contexts, learners are really motivated by the desire to communicate with others and to convey their messages.

On the other hand, L2 is progresses mainly in school classrooms or settings, and it will continue during the period that the learner need or desire. In those kinds of settings, students will advance their English skills and also the cognitive part as well. However, according to the age of the students, they will demonstrate a mature attitude towards the language and motivation will increase if we are talking about adults.

In relation to contexts the L1 is essentially learnt by exposure and picking up, moreover imitation, interaction with the family and being plenty of opportunities to experiment with the language. Besides, L2 is principally learnt through specific language items, in a classroom, with no more than few hours of learning process. In addition, learners receive little individual attention of the teacher and they are supposed to be accurate all the time. This fact reflects how we were and are managing languages for many years, in diverse ways.

-Please go to the following links for more information:

-http://homepage.ntlworld.com/vivian.c/SLA/L1%20and%20L2.htm

-http://eslprofessionaldevelopment.wikispaces.com/Second+Language+Acquisition+-+Learning+in+L1+and+L2

Bibliography

-Ellis 94 (based on Bley-Vroman 1988)