TMN3701 ASSIGNMENT 2 ANSWERS 2024

TMN3701
ASSIGNMENT 2 ANSWERS 2024




TMN3701 ASSIGNMENT 2 ANSWERS
2024

Due date: 9 May 2024 Unique number: 781160

,Module name and code: TMN3701
Assessment number: 2

Due date: 9 May 2024

Unique number: 781160




QUESTION 1

TMN3701/2024

ASSESSMENT 2

1.1. Discuss the critical period hypothesis and indicate whether it has any
relevance to language acquisition and language learning. Substantiate your
answer. (10)

The critical period hypothesis is the idea that there is a biologically determined
period during which language acquisition must take place in order for it to be
successful. This hypothesis suggests that there is a specific window of time during
which the human brain is most receptive to language learning, and that after this
period has passed, it becomes much more difficult, if not impossible, to acquire
language in a fully native-like manner. This hypothesis has been the subject of much
debate and research in the field of language acquisition and learning.



One of the key proponents of the critical period hypothesis is Eric Lenneberg, who
argued that there is a critical period for the acquisition of language that ends around

, puberty. Lenneberg based his hypothesis on the observation that individuals who
had not been exposed to language during early childhood were unable to fully
acquire language later in life. This led him to conclude that there is a biologically
determined period during which the human brain is most receptive to language
learning.



There is evidence to support the critical period hypothesis in terms of first language
acquisition. Studies have shown that individuals who are exposed to a language
early in life, typically before the age of seven, are able to acquire that language with
native-like fluency and pronunciation. On the other hand, individuals who are
exposed to a new language after this critical period often struggle to achieve native-
like proficiency.



In terms of second language acquisition, the critical period hypothesis also has some
relevance. Research has shown that children who are exposed to a second
language early in life are able to achieve a native-like proficiency in that language,
while adults who learn a second language typically do not achieve the same level of
fluency. This supports the idea that there may be a biologically determined period
during which the human brain is most receptive to language learning.



However, it is important to note that the critical period hypothesis is not without its
criticisms. Some researchers argue that there are many variables that can influence
language acquisition and that the critical period hypothesis oversimplifies the
complexity of language learning. Additionally, there are numerous cases of
individuals who have acquired a second language with native-like proficiency despite
being exposed to the language after the supposed critical period has passed.



In conclusion, the critical period hypothesis has some relevance to both first
language acquisition and second language acquisition. There is evidence to suggest
that there is a biologically determined period during which the human brain is most