SLA Theories
This theory emphasizes imitation and reinforcement.
Behaviorist theory
Learners’ emotions (anxiety, motivation, confidence) can block or allow language acquisition. A low affective filter creates the best conditions for learning.
Affective Filter Hypothesis
This function is used when a child asks for something they need, like “I want water.”
Instrumental function
A wall display where new vocabulary and sight words are posted for student reference.
Word Wall
The smallest unit of sound that can change meaning in a language
Phoneme
This theory says humans are born with an innate “Language Acquisition Device.”
Innatist theory (Chomsky)
Cummins says: Social, conversational language, develops quickly and academic, school-based language, takes years to develop
BICS: Basic Interpersonal Communicative Skills CALP: Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency
This function is used when children express curiosity by asking questions.
Heuristic function
A teacher and students compose text together, with the teacher modeling writing.
Shared Writing / Interactive Writing
The study of how sounds function and are organized in a particular language
Phonology
This theory stresses meaningful interaction, scaffolding, and the Zone of Proximal Development.
Sociocultural/Interactionist theory (Vygotsky)
A learner’s evolving, rule-governed system of language that blends L1 and L2 features. Errors are seen as part of the developmental process, not just “mistakes.”
Interlanguage
This function is used when children play with language, tell stories, or imagine
Imaginative function
A classroom routine where the teacher writes a message to students each morning to model literacy.
Morning Message
The set of rules that governs how words are combined to form phrases and sentences
Syntax
This hypothesis argues that comprehensible input slightly above a learner’s current level (i+1) is essential for language acquisition.
Krashen’s Input Hypothesis
The strategic use of two or more languages in communication. Not a sign of confusion, but of linguistic resourcefulness and identity expression.
Code-Switching / Translanguaging
This function is used when children use language to influence others’ behavior, like “Sit down!”
Regulatory function
A journal activity where teacher and student take turns writing short messages back and forth.
Dialogue Journal
The study of meaning in language, how words, phrases, and sentences convey meaning
Semantics
This hypothesis states that when learners focus on meaningful communication, they can acquire language naturally; however, attention to form requires explicit knowledge and sufficient time.
Krashen’s Monitor Hypothesis
The process in which incorrect language forms (errors) become a fixed part of a learner’s interlanguage and persist despite exposure, instruction, or practice.
Fossilization
This function is used when children share feelings, opinions, or personal identity, like “I’m happy” or “I don’t like that.”
Personal function
A structured group reading where students practice fluency and comprehension by reading the same text aloud together with teacher support.
Choral Reading (or Shared Reading)
The study of how language is used in social contexts, including tone, politeness, turn-taking, and how meaning can change depending on context
Pragmatics