REFLECTION-9

What I learned was that second language acquisition theories which quantify
how and by what processes individuals acquire a second language.There are
some factors affecting second language acquisition such as
personality,motivation,culture, environment,sources.For example,introvert
personality may affect negatively SLA; on the other hand extrovert personality
affects it in a positive way.To understand the reason of an error which second
language learner made we need to be aware of cognitive strategies.In addition
to theories there are some hypothesis and claims outlining some myths about
SLA made by Lightbown and Spada.Even though their ideas aren’t supported by
research,they are popular.For example,language learner makes mistakes due to
interference from their first language.Lightbown states that language learning
is complex,and the learner needs to make a great effort to learn it.In addition
to these Larsen-Freeman argued that SLA is a dynamic,nonlinear,complex
system like other sciences.Another hypothesis was offered by Stephen Krashen
which is called Input Hypothesis.Krashen input hypothesis consists of five main
hypothesis.Krashen has described acquisition as a subconscious process similar
to the way a child will acquire his or her first language.The input hypothesis
perhaps the most important of Krashen’s five hypothesis.According to the input
hypothesis the acquirer needs to receive comprehensible input through
reading or hearing language structures that slightly exceed their current ability.

What I had difficulty in figuring out was that critisms about Krashen’s views.

I need to focus more on the natural order hypothesis to understand which

grammar subjects I should teach first.

I may derive some benefits from all hypothesis for my teaching.Because

language is learned through a natural communicationan, as a second language
teacher I should create a situation wherein language is used.For this purpose,I
should use authentic materials which is a convenient way of improving their
confidence in real language situations.Authentic materials will help students to
“acquire” the language instead of just “learning” it. Krashen suggests that the
“monitor” can sometimes act as a barrier and learner slows down and focus
more on accuracy.As a second language teacher I need to encourage my
students to feel comfortable in learning atmosphere and not just focus on
accuracy.I should help them to create a balance between accuracy and
fluency.Being aware of natural order hypothesis,I should start my lessons by
introducing language concepts that are easier for learner to acquire and then I
can teach more difficult ones.It is important to create an atmosphere wherein
low anxiety,high motivation,and high self-confidence.I should make students
believe that they need to take risks and make mistakes to acquire the
language.According to butterfly effect any word which is said by teacher may
affect a student’s all life,so as a teacher I should be careful about that.Exposure
is a key word for SLA.Because learning a second language is a much bigger
commitment than a few hours per week,I should encourage my students to
expose themselves to original content outside of the classroom.For
example,they can listen to music,watch films,read books in target language.