Second Languange Acquisition

If a perspective teacher of English understands the processes involved in acquiring a second language, such a teacher’s ability to know what to do in a teaching/learning situation would be enhanced.

COURSE DESCRIPTION

The language acquisition process among adults who are already proficient in a mother tongue focuses on the interlanguange or interim grammatical system that the second language learner is using while acquiring a second language. The motives, strategies that the learner uses in achieving communicative competence as well as the problems he encounters in the process are all part of this course.

COURSE AIMS

•   To import to the student elements of the interlanguange grammar in the major domains of English phonology, morphology and syntax.
  
•   To ensure that the student is able to discuss the  factors that affect second language acquisition.
  
•   To ensure that the student acquires the necessary strategies of enhancing learners’ communicative competence levels in classroom situations.
  

COURSE LEARNING OUTCOMES

•   Show knowledge of the interlanguange by demonstrating the influence of the source and target languages.
  
•   Be able to discuss the model which accounts for the second language learner’s communicative competence.
  
•   Demonstrate what is actually acquired when a second language learner acquires the phonology, morphology and syntax of a second language.
  
•   Discuss factors that may influence second language acquisition at individual level as well as in groups in Classroom situations.