Workshop 4: Input, Interaction, and Second Language Acquisition

1.- How exactly does acquisition take place?

Acquisition takes place through exposure. Krashen also proposes that comprehensible input helps acquisition to take place.

2.- Which conversational tactics are used in a Native Speaker – Non Native speaker talks?

The Native Speaker-Non Native Speaker was much more likely to make use conversational tactics such as repetitions, confirmation checks, comprehension checks or clarification request. 

3.Why is output  important  in  second language acquisition?

  Swain proposes three further functions for learner output: 

1.- The ‘noticing/triggering’ function, or what might be referred to as the consciousness-raising role. 

 2.-The hypothesis-testing function. 

 3.-The metalinguistic function, or what might be referred to as its ‘reflective role.’

4.Why is the reflective role of output important? 

The reflective role of output is important because the speaker realizes about the mistakes and corrects himself. 

II. Match the teacher’s behaviour with the proper correction technique:

A: Ignore the mistake.

B: Use finger correction.

C: Draw a time line on the board.

1.- You are working with a class of ten-year-old who are doing a fluency activity. One of the learners is talking to the class about her pet. She says: ‘My rabbit eat lettuce.’ You let her continue talking.

 ___A___

2.- You are doing a controlled practise activity. One of the learners says: ‘I have been working last week.’ You show her a diagram.

___C___

3.- You are focusing on spoken language and the use of contractions. A learner says: ‘I’m going swimming tomorrow.’ You want to show him where the mistake is. You use your hand.

___B___