Question

A language learner's emotional state, such as anxiety or confidence, can impact their ability to acquire a new language. Which of Krashen's Monitor Model hypotheses addresses this factor?

• A. Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis
• B. Monitor Hypothesis
• C. Natural Order Hypothesis
• D. Affective Filter Hypothesis

Answer 1

Answer:

D. Affective Filter Hypothesis

Understanding Krashen's Monitor Model and the Affective Filter Hypothesis

• Stephen Krashen's Monitor Model is a significant theory in second language acquisition (SLA).
• It proposes five central hypotheses that explain how individuals learn a new language.

The Affective Filter Hypothesis

• This hypothesis, proposed by Krashen, directly addresses the role of emotional and psychological factors in language learning.
• It suggests that learners have an 'affective filter'—a metaphorical barrier—that can be 'up' or 'down'.
• When the affective filter is 'up': This occurs when learners experience negative emotional states like anxiety, low self-esteem, or lack of motivation. A high filter hinders the acquisition of language because it blocks or reduces the intake of comprehensible input.
• When the affective filter is 'down': This occurs when learners feel comfortable, confident, and motivated. A low filter allows for easier access to and processing of comprehensible input, thus facilitating language acquisition.
• Key Implications for Language Learning:
  • Creating a low-anxiety learning environment is crucial for effective language acquisition.
  • Teachers should focus on building students' confidence and reducing their stress.
  • Positive emotional states enhance a learner's receptiveness to new language material.
• Relevance to Competitive Exams:
  • Understanding this hypothesis is vital for questions related to theories of language acquisition, SLA, and pedagogical approaches in English Language Teaching (ELT).
  • Exams often test the ability to identify which hypothesis explains a specific aspect of language learning, such as the impact of emotions.
  • Questions may present scenarios involving anxious or confident learners and ask to link them to the correct hypothesis.

Other Hypotheses in Krashen's Monitor Model (for context)

• Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis: Distinguishes between subconscious 'acquisition' (similar to how children learn their first language) and conscious 'learning' (formal study of grammar rules).
• Monitor Hypothesis: Suggests that consciously learned knowledge ('learning') can only be used to 'monitor' or edit the output produced by the acquired system.
• Input Hypothesis (i+1): Posits that language is acquired when learners receive input that is slightly beyond their current level of competence (i+1).
• Output Hypothesis: While not always listed as a core part of the initial five, some scholars include a related idea about the role of producing language.