Question

The difference between 'acquisition' (subconscious, natural process) and 'learning' (conscious, formal process) is a key concept in which theory?

• A. Behaviorism
• B. Nativism
• C. Krashen's Monitor Model
• D. Constructivism

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Krashen's Monitor Model

Krashen's Monitor Model Explained

• The distinction between acquisition (subconscious, natural process) and learning (conscious, formal process) is central to Krashen's Monitor Model of second language acquisition.
• This model, developed by linguist Stephen Krashen in the late 1970s and early 1980s, proposes five central hypotheses:
• The Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis: This is the core distinction. Acquisition is akin to how children pick up their first language – it's natural, intuitive, and happens through meaningful interaction. Learning, on the other hand, is the formal study of language rules, grammar, and vocabulary in a classroom setting.
• The Monitor Hypothesis: This hypothesis suggests that 'learned' language acts as a 'monitor' or editor for 'acquired' language. We use learned rules to correct our output, but only when we have sufficient time, focus on form, and know the rule.
• The Natural Order Hypothesis: Krashen posits that grammatical structures are acquired in a predictable order, regardless of the language being learned or the order in which they are taught. Some structures are acquired earlier than others.
• The Input Hypothesis (i+1): This is arguably the most influential hypothesis. It states that language is acquired when we receive 'comprehensible input' that is slightly beyond our current level of understanding (i+1). This means input that is understandable but contains new structures or vocabulary.
• The Affective Filter Hypothesis: This hypothesis suggests that emotional factors like motivation, anxiety, and confidence can affect language acquisition. A high affective filter (e.g., high anxiety) can impede the process, while a low filter facilitates it.
• Relevance to Teaching and Exams: Understanding Krashen's model is crucial for educators and test-takers. It emphasizes the importance of creating environments where language is used for real communication (acquisition) rather than solely focusing on explicit grammar instruction (learning).
• Exam Tip: When answering questions related to second language acquisition theories, look for keywords like 'comprehensible input', 'subconscious', 'natural', 'conscious', 'grammar rules', 'affective factors', and 'stages of acquisition'. These are strong indicators pointing towards Krashen's work.
• The theory significantly influenced the communicative language teaching (CLT) approach, which prioritizes fluency and meaningful communication over perfect grammatical accuracy in early stages.