Interlanguage Flashcards
What is the definition of interlanguage (IL)?
Interlanguage (IL) is a linguistic system used by second language learners when attempting to communicate in the target language. It is influenced by the learner’s native language (L1) and used to bridge the gap between L1 and the targeted second language (L2).
Describe the characteristics of interlanguage. Provide an example for one of these characteristics.
Interlanguage has several characteristics:
Dynamic and permeable: Interlanguage changes over time as learners progress. For example, learners might initially say, “I no swimming,” which later becomes, “I don’t swimming,” until reaching perfection as “I don’t swim.”
Systematic: Despite variations among learners, interlanguage follows systematic rules. For example, learners might say, “I received money, I buyed a new car, and I selled it,” which demonstrates systematic but incorrect rules.
Variable: Learner performance in interlanguage can vary across contexts. For instance, in a formal classroom setting, a learner might say, “I don’t drink coffee,” while in a spontaneous conversation, they might say, “I no drink coffee.”
What factors affect the formation of interlanguage? Provide a brief explanation for one of these factors.
There are five factors that influence the formation of interlanguage:
Overgeneralization: This occurs when learners apply a rule from their native language (L1) to the target language (L2) incorrectly. For example, saying “deers” instead of “deer” or “goed” instead of “went.”
What factors affect the formation of interlanguage? Provide a brief explanation for one of these factors.
There are five factors that influence the formation of interlanguage:
Overgeneralization: This occurs when learners apply a rule from their native language (L1) to the target language (L2) incorrectly. For example, saying “deers” instead of “deer” or “goed” instead of “went.”
Define “fossilization” in the context of interlanguage. What are some reasons for fossilization?
Fossilization in interlanguage refers to a point where the learner’s language development stagnates, and certain forms become frozen, even if they are incorrect. Reasons for fossilization include the learner reaching a comfortable communicative level, linguistic obstacles, an inadequate learning environment, or incorrectly learned forms that cannot be unlearned.
How can understanding interlanguage benefit language teachers? Provide two examples of how teachers can use this understanding in their teaching.
Understanding interlanguage can benefit language teachers in the following ways:
Teachers can develop realistic expectations for learners’ progress and create appropriate learning materials.
Teachers can use errors made by learners as indicators of their progress and struggles, allowing them to adjust their teaching plans accordingly.
