Mod 1 Discussion: Classroom Implications of Linguistic Theory

The need to refrain from correcting students is based on the principle that language acquisition should be free of pressure (social and emotional). This would help the students to reduce anxiety and fear of speaking a new language and will increase at the same time, self-confidence.

Learning theories in general, facilitate teacher’s connections with students. When a student is learning a second language, initially is for basic communication purposes where the grammar does not necessarily need to be correct. The learning of a second language differently than the primary language involves a longer process that is connected with some factors: cultural, social, educational, and cognitive. Based on the Innanist theory, it takes at least five years to develop a second language cognitively.

Some alternatives that can help students develop self-correction awareness are:

a.       Small group practice- they give mutual feedback

b.       Display clear visuals in the classroom

c.       Body language- clues they can understand

d.       Simplify the sentences and questions, so they can break their responses short too.

e.       Self-recording- when they listen to themselves, they can realize what they need to improve.