Approaches to Second Language Acquisition. Error Analysis and English Research Paper

Approaches to Second Language Acquisition. Error Analysis and English Language Writing - Research Paper Example Formal class room learning of a second language presents many barriers to the learner because learner had already acquired his first language and uses it most effectively to communicate in the class room. This gives a psychological disadvantage to the learner clinching to and always ready to fall back on first language in case complex scenarios occur (Yule, 1985). Thus Steinberg (1982) argues that it is quite possible that second language learning process is accelerated if the learner is provided with an environment presenting stimuli through socialization with speakers of target language. Yule (1985) and Brown (1994) identified age as another barrier to second language acquisition (SLA), which they referred to as critical period. According to them, there is a certain age limit that allows a learner to demonstrate optimal language acquisition skill, beyond what is very difficult to learn another language. Approaches to Second Language Acquisition Different models and analytical approaches are employed by researchers in second language acquisition. This included the grammar translation method, the direct method, the audio-lingual approach and the communicative approach. Yule (1985) gives more importance to communicative approach due to its error tolerances. ... According to Lennon (1991), an error is "a linguistic form or combination of forms which in the same context and under similar conditions of production would, in all likelihood, not be produced by the speakers' native speakers’ counterparts". In the second language teaching/learning process the error has always been regarded as something negative which must be avoided. As a consequence, teachers have always adopted a repressive attitude towards it. On one hand, it was considered to be a sign of inadequacy of the teaching techniques and on the other hand it was seen as a natural result of the fact that since by nature we cannot avoid making errors we should accept the reality and try to deal with them. Fortunately, little by little the error has been seen from a different point of view being made obvious that we can learn from our mistakes. George (1972) is of the view that learners make errors in both comprehension and production, the first being rather scanty investigated. Ch ildren learning their first language, adult native speakers, and second language learners; they all make errors which have a different name according to the group committing the error. Children's errors have been seen as "transitional forms", the errors by native speaker are called "slips of the tongue" and the second language errors are considered unwanted forms. 2.4 Background of Error Analysis Earlier in 1960’s, behaviorist theory formed the basis of second language acquisition, which weighed language acquisition not more than just acquiring set of new language skills. For a considerable period, linguistic research focused on interference of learner’s first language with acquisition of second language. Thus researchers used contrastive analysis to predict the areas that need attention

Tourism Essay On Turkey Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Tourism On Turkey - Essay Example Elements of Traditional Turkish Culture and Arab Culture observed in Turkey The constitution of Turkey has given everybody the right to choose their religious beliefs. However, despite of that the traditional Turkish culture and Arab culture exert a great influence over the life of people here. As in other Arab cultures, Islam holds significant place in the lives of Turks since most of them are Muslims. The Quran and the actions of the Prophet (the Sunnah) shape the basis of all religious and daily practices of the Turks. As per traditional Arab culture, family relationships hold the utmost position in the people’s lives. The father is positioned as the supreme head of the family though today, the mother enjoys equal rights. However, in most small towns and villages, till today the father is supposed to play the role of the boss and protector of the family whereas mothers are responsible for looking after the daily chores of the household. Children are expected to give respect to elders and support when they are old; and it is the duty of the elders to provide financial and emotional support to children when they are young. Every family member is supposed to help each other in the hour of need in every possible way. The segregation of sexes can still be seen in small towns and villages. ... The outlook behind the hospitality is â€Å"whatever religion you are from, whichever country you come from, whatever language you speak, you are God’s guest and so you deserve to be welcomed in the best manner†. This courteous and kind hearted attitude of the Turks is visible for every tourist visiting their country or any person visiting their home. Another culture that still holds an important place in the lives of Turks is the practice of Turkish baths or, Hamam. The emphasis of Islam upon cleanliness has made this custom a part of every event in the life of a Turk whether childbirth, marriage or death. Moreover, the famous coffee houses called Kahve, are very explicit to Turkish people even today (as cited in â€Å"People and mentality†, n.d). Extent of Influence of Westernization and Modernization on Traditional Turkish and Arab Culture Western and modern culture has been adopted by the Turkish people in a huge way. In 1923, Turkey was declared a republic a fter the fall of the Ottoman Empire during World War II. The main aim of the new government under the leadership of Ataturk was to turn Turkey into a contemporary, western and secular nation. The state religion of Islam was disestablished and all religions were given the freedom to practice their beliefs; the Western system of legal code was adopted. Soon, the classical music of Turkey became influenced by the western culture for example, the development of rock music insurrected the local form. Moreover, the European style of architecture replaced the Ottoman style in institutional buildings. The Turkish literature became westernized with the introduction of the novel and the short story. Most importantly, the western culture of lifestyle, clothing and attitude was