Student: Risn Flynn

I.D: 10128379

Module: TE4025

Krashens Input Hypothesis (250 words)

This theory put forward by Krashen centres on language acquisition and the idea of comprehensible input, i.e. all language that we are exposed to that we actually understand. He proposes that in order to progress in any given language, comprehensible input must be pitched at a level that is one step above the learners ability, e.g. if the learner is at level (i) then in order to progress further towards fluency the language they must be exposed to must be pitched at a level equivalent to (i + 1). If the language is pitched any higher, the learner will find it too difficult and become frustrated and losing confidence in themselves which may impede their language progression. Conversely, if the language is pitched at a level that is lower or equal to their current level, they will not be learning anything new and as such become bored and fail to progress any further. Another important factor in Krashens work regarding his input hypothesis theory is the concept of the affective filter. This concerns anything that may create a barrier to language learning. If a student is bored, stressed or doubting their abilities, this may raise the affective barrier and impede their language acquisition. Krashen believes that it is only when we eliminate these factors that the language barrier will be lowered and students will be able to acquire new language. This concept ties in with the C.L.T method of teaching, based on theories of humanism which focus on the learning environment and how this influences and contributes to language learning and acquisition.