A contrast between second language acquisition/ foreign language

learning is often made in Second Language Acquisition (SLA). The former is a

process by which students learn the target language unconsciously in a
naturalistic setting, whereas the latter is a process of conscious learning that
takes place in an instructed setting. However, a neutral term that can cover
both types of learning is needed, and that is second language acquisition
(Ellis, 1994).
(speak about competence/performance; usage/use?)

Definition
According to Larsen- Freeman and Long SLA theories can be classified into
nature (humans are genetically prepared to develop language) and nurture or
environmentalist.
1.1.

Main Theories based on the Nurture Perspective of SLA

According to this view humans learn a language from the experience and the
interaction with others.
1.1.1. The acculturation model
It was proposed by Schumann and it states that the level of success in SLA in a
naturalistic setting is determined by the extent to which the learner acculturates
to the target language community. Acculturation is thus determined by the
degree of social and psychological distance between the learner and the
target language culture. Social distance is related to the extent to which learners
become members of the target language group (group dimension), and
psychological distance refers to the extent to which learners feel comfortable
with the learning task (personal dimension). Schumann added that when social
and/or psychological distances are great the learner fails to progress beyond the
early stages, with the result that the language is pidginized, that is, simplified
and reduced. When pidginization persists the language fossilizes.
1.1.2. Accommodation theory

It was developed by Giles.

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1.2. Main theories based on the Nature Perspective
1.3. Neurolinguistics
1.3.1. Neurofunctional theory
This theory is based on the work of Lamendella. He discusses that language
acquisition is a product of neural processes. There are two areas of the brain
that are associated with language learning:

Right and left hemisphere

Wernicke and Brocas areas of the left hemisphere, associated with
comprehension and production, respectively.

He distinguishes two neurofunctional systems, each consisting of a hierarchy of

functions:

The communication hierarchy has the responsibility for language

and other forms of interpersonal communication.

The cognitive hierarchy controls a variety of cognitive information
processing

activities

that

are

also

part

of

interpersonal

communication.
1.3.2. Critical period hypothesis
I has its foundations on the work of Lennerberg. He postulated kkk
The age hypothesis in SLA is still a topic of debate among linguists. While there
is wide consensus on the critical period in first language acquisition, it is
debatable whether it occurs the same in SLA. We still dont know, but the truth
is that achieving native-like proficiency in adults is difficult, though not
impossible.