Interlanguage

Definition

Interlanguage is the evolving language system that learners create as they progress toward full proficiency in a second language. This unique linguistic system blends elements of the learner's native language and the target language, reflecting their current understanding and usage patterns. It is an important concept in understanding how individuals acquire new languages, showcasing the complexities and developmental stages involved in second language acquisition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Interlanguage demonstrates that language learning is not a straightforward transition from one language to another; rather, it's a complex developmental process involving stages of error-making and correction.
2. Learners often create unique grammatical rules within their interlanguage that may differ from both their native and target languages, showcasing their understanding at that moment.
3. The concept of interlanguage helps explain why learners may make systematic errors, as these errors are often predictable and reflect transitional knowledge rather than a lack of ability.
4. Interlanguage can evolve and improve over time as learners receive more exposure to the target language and engage in practice, illustrating the dynamic nature of language acquisition.
5. Factors such as age, motivation, exposure, and the learner's first language can significantly influence the characteristics and development of an individual's interlanguage.

Review Questions

• How does interlanguage illustrate the challenges faced by learners during the second language acquisition process?
  • Interlanguage illustrates the challenges faced by learners by showing how they navigate their way through creating a unique linguistic system that combines elements from both their native language and the target language. As learners attempt to communicate, they often make errors that stem from their developing understanding, reflecting both positive and negative influences from their first language. This evolving system highlights the non-linear nature of language learning, where mistakes are not merely failures but important stepping stones toward proficiency.
• Discuss how fossilization can impact a learner's interlanguage development and overall proficiency in a second language.
  • Fossilization can significantly hinder a learner's interlanguage development by solidifying incorrect usage patterns into their speech or writing. When certain errors become ingrained, they can be difficult to unlearn even with further instruction or exposure to correct forms. This process can lead to stagnation in the learner's overall proficiency, as they may continue to rely on these fossilized forms instead of progressing toward more accurate usage of the target language.
• Evaluate the implications of interlanguage for teaching strategies in second language education.
  • The concept of interlanguage has important implications for teaching strategies in second language education, as it emphasizes the need for educators to understand each learner's unique linguistic journey. Recognizing that learners will go through various stages of development can help teachers tailor their instruction to address specific errors and provide constructive feedback. Moreover, teaching strategies should incorporate opportunities for learners to practice using the target language in meaningful contexts, allowing for natural progression and adjustment of their interlanguage over time.

Related terms

Language Transfer: Language transfer refers to the influence that a learner's first language has on the learning of a second language, which can manifest as both positive transfer (facilitating learning) and negative transfer (causing errors).

Fossilization: Fossilization is the process through which incorrect language use becomes a permanent feature in a learner's interlanguage, making it difficult to correct despite further instruction.

Second Language Acquisition (SLA): Second Language Acquisition is the process through which individuals learn a second language, encompassing various theories, practices, and stages involved in acquiring new linguistic skills.