In contrast to native language acquisition, adult second-language (L2) acquisition occurs under highly variable learning conditions. Although most adults acquire their L2 at least partially through explicit instruction, as in a classroom setting, many others acquire their L2 primarily through implicit exposure, as is typical of an immersion environment. Whether these differences in acquisition ...

Prosodic transfer is a rich area of research for second language acquisition (SLA), encompassing multiple aspects of a speaker’s production (Archibald 1997, 2006, Goad & White 2006, Gut 2003, Barry 2007, inter alia). In the research reported here we are particularly interested in the L2 acquisition of main sentence prominence or nuclear stress (NS), regarding how the L1 (Spanish) and the L2 (En...

As is well known, the study of L2 acquisition provides essential insights about the language learning process in general. Approaching language learning through the study of L1 acquisition alone yields an incomplete and potentially erroneous view of the language faculty. For example, L2 study critically informs such debates as the "maturation of linguistic principles" proposed for L1 learning. P...

Explaining why some linguistic features and constructions are easy or difficult to acquire in a second language has become a prominent current concern in generative second language acquisition (SLA) research. Based on a comparison of findings on the L2 acquisition of functional morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics, the Bottleneck Hypothesis argues that functional morphemes and their fea...

This thesis explores the role of age in second language (L2) acquisition and first language (L1) attrition. The focus is on Voice Onset Time (VOT) in the production and categorical perception of word-initial L1 and L2 stops in highly advanced L1 Spanish learners of L2 Swedish. Using as the point of departure a maturational constraints perspective and the Critical Period Hypothesis (CPH), Study ...

Microgenetic  method  is  a  specific  method  for  studying  change  in  abilities,  knowledge,  and understanding  during  short  time  spans,  through  dense  observations,  and  over  a  relatively  long period of time. In this paper I will attempt to provide a brief overview of microgenetic method and will point out its potential advantages and disadvantages in the context of second langua...