Critical period hypothesis

Definition

The critical period hypothesis suggests that there is a specific time frame during which language acquisition must occur for it to develop normally and fully. If exposure to language does not happen during this sensitive period, typically considered to be from early childhood until puberty, individuals may struggle to achieve native-like proficiency in language. This concept is closely tied to understanding both first and second language acquisition, as it highlights the importance of age in learning languages.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The critical period hypothesis was popularized by linguist Eric Lenneberg in the 1960s, who proposed that language acquisition is biologically linked to age.
2. Research indicates that children who are exposed to a second language before puberty can achieve fluency similar to that of native speakers, whereas those who begin learning later often face challenges.
3. Studies involving feral children, such as Genie Wiley, provide evidence supporting the critical period hypothesis as they struggled to acquire language after being isolated from linguistic input during critical developmental years.
4. The brain's plasticity decreases with age, making it harder for older learners to pick up new languages as effortlessly as younger learners.
5. The implications of the critical period hypothesis extend to educational practices and language teaching strategies, suggesting that earlier exposure can lead to better outcomes in second language proficiency.

Review Questions

• How does the critical period hypothesis explain the differences in language acquisition between children and adults?
  • The critical period hypothesis explains that children are neurologically equipped to acquire language more effectively than adults due to heightened brain plasticity during early years. This means that children can absorb and internalize linguistic structures naturally through interaction. In contrast, adults may face difficulties achieving native-like proficiency if they begin learning a new language after this sensitive period ends, as their brains are less adaptable to the nuances of new languages.
• Discuss the implications of the critical period hypothesis on educational practices regarding second language instruction.
  • The critical period hypothesis suggests that introducing a second language early in a child's education can lead to better fluency and comprehension. This has important implications for educational practices, indicating that immersion programs or bilingual education should be prioritized in early childhood settings. By aligning language instruction with the critical period for acquisition, educators can enhance students' potential for achieving high levels of proficiency in a second language.
• Evaluate how the evidence supporting the critical period hypothesis impacts our understanding of neuroplasticity and its role in learning languages throughout life.
  • Evidence supporting the critical period hypothesis reinforces the concept of neuroplasticity—particularly how it changes with age. The ability of young brains to form new neural connections makes them more adept at acquiring languages effortlessly during early years. However, this also suggests that while older learners may find it challenging to reach native-like proficiency due to reduced plasticity, they still retain the capacity for language learning. This highlights the importance of lifelong learning strategies that accommodate varying cognitive abilities at different ages, emphasizing that while age affects acquisition speed and ease, it does not completely eliminate the potential for learning new languages later in life.

Related terms

Sensitive Period: A phase in development when an individual is particularly receptive to acquiring certain skills or knowledge, including language, but unlike the critical period, it may allow for learning outside the specified time frame.

First Language Acquisition: The process by which infants and young children naturally learn their native language through exposure, interaction, and engagement with their environment and caregivers.

Second Language Acquisition:

The process by which individuals learn a language other than their native language, often influenced by various factors including age, motivation, and exposure.