3. What is comprehensible input? What does Krashen think about this concept?

- Comprehensible input is language input that listeners can understand despite not understanding all the
words and structures in it. It is described as one level above that of the learners if it can only just be
understood.

- According to Krashen's theory of language acquisition, giving learners this kind of input helps them
acquire language naturally, rather than learn it consciously. If the input contains forms and structures
just beyond the learner’s current level of competence in the language (what Krashen calls ‘i+ I ‘), then
both comprehension and acquisition will occur.

Example:

The teacher selects a reading text for upper-intermediate level learners that is from a lower advanced
level coursebook. Based on what the teacher knows about the learners, the teacher believes that this
will give them 'comprehensible input' to help them acquire more language.

4. What is modified input? What is it called in L1/L2 learning? Point out the features of these types of
speech?

- One condition which appears to be common to learners of all ages – though perhaps not in equal
qualities – is access to modified input. This adjusted speech style, which is called child-directed speech
for the first language, is sometimes called foreigner talk or teacher talk for second languages. Many
people who interact regularly with language learners seem to have an intuitive sense of what
adjustments are needed to help learners understand.

- The features of these types of speech:

Motherese’ or caretaker talk The caretaker talk involves a slower rate of

Foreigners talk or teachers talk
speech, higher pitch, more varied intonation,
shorter, simpler sentence patterns, frequent
repetition, and paraphrasing. Furthermore, the
topic of conversation is often limited to the
child’s immediate environment, the ‘here and
now.
Many people who interact regularly with
language learners seem to have an intuitive sense
of what adjustments are needed to help learners
understand. This type of speech is used when
native speakers address non-native speakers.