1. Formal Approaches to Second Language Acquisition
Kathleen B. Jones
Clinton City Schools
Kathleen B. Jones

2. Innatism Approach Noam Chomsky - Language is a natural
biological process.
Although language rules may not be similar- the ability to identify correctly formed sentences is universal and independent of meaning.
LAD – Language Acquisition Device
Universal Grammar – a set of universal rules that govern language.
Kathleen B. Jones

3. Innatism Approach Myles (2008) If humans have LAD, this
could place constraints on
second language acquisition.
Innate language learning during L1 could hinder L2 learning.
Explains why young learners learn L1 easier than L2
Kathleen B. Jones

4. Interactionist Approach
Emphasis on learner interaction and the social aspects of language learning
Studies the nature of interactions that take place in second language learning
Kathleen B. Jones

5. Interactionist Approach (Cont.)
Research shows that interactions and error corrections assist in promoting second language acquisition
Learning involves interactions between learners, teachers, and peers (Vygostky, 1986).
Kathleen B. Jones

6. Critical Factors in SLA
Critical Period Hypothesis
Natural language takes place
between the critical ages of two years to about age twelve (Lenneburg)
Before age two the brain is not developed enough and after age twelve the brain experiences loss of plasticity
Lateralization of the language function in the brain is complete around puberty
Critical period limits L1 and L2 acquisition
Kathleen B. Jones

7. Critical factors in SLA
Contextual factors
Language
L1 and L2 similarities and differences
L1 proficiency
Knowledge of L2
Attitudes
Dialect and register
Learner
Diversity in classroom
Support groups
Home Environment
Goals for language learning
Learning Process
Learning Style
Cultural influences
Motivation
Interactions
Kathleen B. Jones

8. Tips For Teachers Respect student errors.
Address errors that students are capable of correcting.
Self-repair is preferable to other-repair.
Develop strategies to help students overcome avoidance.
Remember – student errors are a precious resource.
Kathleen B. Jones

9. Interactionist Approach in Clinton City Schools
Be aware of the validity of components of innateness.
(Can explain what we don’t understand about student learning.)
Interactionist approach used in CCS
High degree of interactions in the classroom
Curriculum requires us to use this approach
Assessment requires us to use this approach
Will help student learn English at a faster rate
Vocabulary instruction is enhanced
Our instruction of teaching reading, writing, speaking and listening are based on the interactionist approach.
Kathleen B. Jones

10. My Personal Approach Credibility with innatist theories
Interactionist theory more useful in today’s classroom
Vocabulary instruction
Socialization
Reading and writing as well as speaking and listening
Interaction strong in classroom/society
Quicker acquisition of language
Kathleen B. Jones

11. Resources ESL Mania- Ideas for teaching ESL
Instructional strategies - Instructional strategies for teachers
Classroom Instruction that Works - (Marzano)
Lanternfish -site with many useful ideas
TESOL – Resource page with many resources
Kathleen B. Jones

12. References
Answers.com (n.d.) Retrieved online at:
Craig, V. Formal approaches to second language acquisition. Retrieved online on 5/20/2010 at:
Gass, S. & Selinker, L. Second language acquisition(2008). New York, NY: Routeledge.
Myles, F. Second language acquisition research: Its significance for learning and teaching issues. Retrieved online on 5/21/2010 at: :
Woozley, I.(n.d). Second language acquisition and the communicative approach. Retrieved online at:
Kathleen B. Jones