Comprehensible Input

Definition

Comprehensible input refers to language input that is understandable to learners but slightly above their current level of proficiency. This concept plays a vital role in second language acquisition, as it emphasizes the importance of exposure to language that learners can grasp while still being challenged. When learners receive this type of input, it helps them to acquire new vocabulary and grammatical structures more effectively, fostering overall language development.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Comprehensible input must be meaningful and relevant to the learner's experiences to facilitate better understanding and retention.
2. It is often associated with the work of Stephen Krashen, who proposed that exposure to comprehensible input is essential for natural language acquisition.
3. Providing opportunities for interaction with native speakers can enhance the availability of comprehensible input for learners.
4. Teachers can create comprehensible input through strategies like scaffolding, using visuals, or simplifying language without diluting content.
5. The effectiveness of comprehensible input is linked to the learner's motivation and engagement with the material being presented.

Review Questions

• How does comprehensible input relate to the idea of 'i+1' in language learning?
  • Comprehensible input is closely tied to the concept of 'i+1,' which suggests that learners should receive language that is just beyond their current proficiency level. This means that for effective learning, the input needs to be understandable while still presenting a slight challenge. When learners engage with 'i+1' input, they are more likely to acquire new vocabulary and grammar because it encourages them to stretch their understanding without becoming overwhelmed.
• Discuss how the Output Hypothesis complements the concept of comprehensible input in second language acquisition.
  • The Output Hypothesis complements comprehensible input by emphasizing the importance of producing language as part of the learning process. While comprehensible input provides the necessary exposure to new linguistic forms, producing output allows learners to practice using those forms actively. This interaction between receiving and producing language enhances overall comprehension and fluency, as it forces learners to process what they have heard and formulate responses.
• Evaluate the impact of emotional factors on a learner's ability to process comprehensible input effectively.
  • Emotional factors significantly influence a learner's capacity to process comprehensible input through the concept of the Affective Filter. When learners are anxious, insecure, or unmotivated, their Affective Filter rises, creating barriers that prevent them from fully engaging with and understanding language input. Conversely, when students feel relaxed and confident, their Affective Filter lowers, allowing them to absorb more comprehensible input effectively. This highlights the need for supportive learning environments that promote emotional well-being alongside cognitive challenges.

Related terms

i+1: This formula represents the idea that comprehensible input should be at a level just above the learner's current competence, often described as 'i' for what they know and '+1' for what they are ready to learn next.

Output Hypothesis:

A theory suggesting that producing language (speaking or writing) is crucial for language acquisition, as it forces learners to process and use comprehensible input actively.

Affective Filter: A concept that refers to emotional barriers that can impact language acquisition, where a high affective filter can prevent learners from processing comprehensible input effectively.