TMN3701 ASSIGNMENT
2 2024 (781160) - DUE 9
MAY 2024
+254792947610 [Company address]
, TMN3701 Assignment 2 2024 (781160) - DUE 9 May 2024
QUESTION 1
1.1. Discuss the critical period hypothesis and indicate whether it has any
relevance to language acquisition and language learning. Substantiate your
answer. (10)
1.2. Explain how the concept of “language transfer” relates to the role of the first
language in additional language teaching according to Cummins (1980). Describe
how you would identify opportunities for “language transfer” in additional
language teaching. (10)
1.3. Learning unit 4 discusses the principles of teaching. Select five principles and
explain how you would use them in the classroom. (10) (30)
Language Acquisition and Learning: Critical Period, Transfer, and Teaching
Principles
1.1. Critical Period Hypothesis
The critical period hypothesis proposes a sensitive window in early childhood
during which language acquisition is easiest and most successful. This window is
typically thought to close around puberty.
Relevance to Language Acquisition and Learning:
• Supports Early Language Exposure: The hypothesis emphasizes the
importance of rich language input during early years for optimal language
acquisition.
• Limited Explanatory Power: However, the hypothesis doesn't fully explain
language learning. Adults can learn new languages, albeit with more effort
compared to children.
Arguments Against Strict Critical Period:
• Second Language Acquisition: Many adults achieve fluency in second
languages, suggesting continued plasticity in the brain for language
learning.
For exam pack with questions and answers, quality notes, assignments and exam
help:
email:
WhatsApp: +254792947610
2 2024 (781160) - DUE 9
MAY 2024
+254792947610 [Company address]
, TMN3701 Assignment 2 2024 (781160) - DUE 9 May 2024
QUESTION 1
1.1. Discuss the critical period hypothesis and indicate whether it has any
relevance to language acquisition and language learning. Substantiate your
answer. (10)
1.2. Explain how the concept of “language transfer” relates to the role of the first
language in additional language teaching according to Cummins (1980). Describe
how you would identify opportunities for “language transfer” in additional
language teaching. (10)
1.3. Learning unit 4 discusses the principles of teaching. Select five principles and
explain how you would use them in the classroom. (10) (30)
Language Acquisition and Learning: Critical Period, Transfer, and Teaching
Principles
1.1. Critical Period Hypothesis
The critical period hypothesis proposes a sensitive window in early childhood
during which language acquisition is easiest and most successful. This window is
typically thought to close around puberty.
Relevance to Language Acquisition and Learning:
• Supports Early Language Exposure: The hypothesis emphasizes the
importance of rich language input during early years for optimal language
acquisition.
• Limited Explanatory Power: However, the hypothesis doesn't fully explain
language learning. Adults can learn new languages, albeit with more effort
compared to children.
Arguments Against Strict Critical Period:
• Second Language Acquisition: Many adults achieve fluency in second
languages, suggesting continued plasticity in the brain for language
learning.
For exam pack with questions and answers, quality notes, assignments and exam
help:
email:
WhatsApp: +254792947610
