Myths and Misconceptions About Second Language Learning. ERIC Digest
Myths and Misconceptions About Second Language Learning. ERIC Digest
Myths and Misconceptions About Second Language Learning. ERIC Digest
Hence, although it appears that the child learns more quickly than the adult, research results
typically indicate that adult and adolescent learners perform better.
Teachers should not expect miraculous results from children learning English as a second
language (ESL) in the classroom. At the very least, they should anticipate that learning a
second language is as difficult for a child as it is for an adult. It may be even more difficult,
since young children do not have access to the memory techniques and other strategies that
more experienced learners use in acquiring vocabulary and in learning grammatical rules.
Nor should it be assumed that children have fewer inhibitions than adults when they make
mistakes in an L2. Children are more likely to be shy and embarrassed around peers than
are adults. Children from some cultural backgrounds are extremely anxious when singled
out to perform in a language they are in the process of learning. Teachers should not
assume that, because children supposedly learn second languages quickly, such discomfort
will readily pass.
MYTH 2: THE YOUNGER THE CHILD, THE MORE SKILLED IN ACQUIRING
AN L2
Some researchers argue that the earlier children begin to learn a second language, the better
(e.g., Krashen, Long, & Scarcella, 1979). However, research does not support this
conclusion in school settings. For example, a study of British children learning French in a
school context concluded that, after 5 years of exposure, older children were better L2
learners (Stern, Burstall, & Harley, 1975). Similar results have been found in other
European studies (e.g., Florander & Jansen, 1968).
These findings may reflect the mode of language instruction used in Europe, where
emphasis has traditionally been placed on formal grammatical analysis. Older children are
more skilled in dealing with this approach and hence might do better. However, this
argument does not explain findings from studies of French immersion programs in Canada,
where little emphasis is placed on the formal aspects of grammar. On tests of French
language proficiency, Canadian English-speaking children in late immersion programs
(where the L2 is introduced in Grade 7 or 8) have performed as well or better than children
who began immersion in kindergarten or Grade 1 (Genesee, 1987).
Pronunciation is one area where the younger-is-better assumption may have validity.
Research (e.g., Oyama, 1976) has found that the earlier a learner begins a second language,
the more native-like the accent he or she develops.
The research cited above does not suggest, however, that early exposure to an L2 is
detrimental. An early start for "foreign" language learners, for example, makes a long
sequence of instruction leading to potential communicative proficiency possible and
enables children to view second language learning and related cultural insights as normal
and integral. Nonetheless, ESL instruction in the United States is different from foreign
language instruction. Language minority children in U.S. schools need to master English as
quickly as possible while learning subject-matter content. This suggests that early exposure
to English is called for. However, because L2 acquisition takes time, children continue to
need the support of their first language, where this is possible, to avoid falling behind in
content area learning.
Teachers should have realistic expectations of their ESL learners. Research suggests that
older students will show quicker gains, though younger children may have an advantage in
pronunciation. Certainly, beginning language instruction in Grade 1 gives children more
exposure to the language than beginning in Grade 6, but exposure in itself does not predict
language acquisition.
In a school environment, behaviors such as paying attention and persisting at tasks are
valued. Because of cultural differences, some children may find the interpersonal setting of
the school culture difficult. If the teacher is unaware of such cultural differences, their
expectations and interactions with these children may be influenced.
Effective instruction for children from culturally diverse backgrounds requires varied
instructional activities that consider the children's diversity of experience. Many important
educational innovations in current practice have resulted from teachers adapting instruction
for children from culturally diverse backgrounds. Teachers need to recognize that
experiences in the home and home culture affect children's values, patterns of language use,
and interpersonal style. Children are likely to be more responsive to a teacher who affirms
the values of the home culture.
CONCLUSION
Research on second language learning has shown that many misconceptions exist about
how children learn languages. Teachers need to be aware of these misconceptions and
realize that quick and easy solutions are not appropriate for complex problems. Second
language learning by school-aged children takes longer, is harder, and involves more effort
than many teachers realize.
We should focus on the opportunity that cultural and linguistic diversity provides. Diverse
children enrich our schools and our understanding of education in general. In fact, although
the research of the National Center for Research on Cultural Diversity and Second
Language Learning has been directed at children from culturally and linguistically diverse
backgrounds, much of it applies equally well to mainstream students.
REFERENCES
Collier, V. (1989). How long: A synthesis of research on academic achievement in a second
language. "TESOL Quarterly, 23," 509-531.
Cummins, J. (1980). The cross-lingual dimensions of language proficiency: Implications
for bilingual education and the optimal age issue. "TESOL Quarterly, 14," 175-187.
Cummins, J. (1981). The role of primary language development in promoting educational
success for language minority students. In "Schooling and language minority students: A
theoretical framework." Los Angeles: California State University; Evaluation,
Dissemination, and Assessment Center.
Florander, J., & Jansen, M. (1968). "Skolefors'g i engelsk 1959-1965." Copenhagen:
Danish Institute of Education.
Genesee, F. (1987). "Learning through two languages: Studies of immersion and bilingual