principles and theories of language acquisition and learning

1. Principles and Theories of
Language Acquisition and
Learning
 IRENE S. CASTELLANO, PhD
 August 05, 2025
 EL 103

2. Learning Objectives:
• Understand the difference
between language acquisition and
language learning.
• Identify key theories that
explain how language is acquired.
• Recognize principles that guide
effective language teaching.

3. What is Language Acquisition?
• Definition: The unconscious process
of gaining language, especially a first
language, through natural exposure.
• Key Features:
- Subconscious
- Context-rich environments
- Focus on communication

4. What is Language Learning?
• Definition: The conscious process of
studying a language, often in formal
educational settings.
• Key Features:
- Rule-based learning
- Explicit grammar instruction
- Focus on accuracy

5. Language Acquisition vs
Language Learning
Language Acquisition:
• Subconscious, communication-
focused, natural environment, common in
children.
Language Learning:
• Conscious, rule-focused, formal
environment, typical for adolescents and
adults.

6. Key Theories Overview
• Behaviorist Theory – Skinner
• Innatist Theory – Chomsky
• Interactionist Theory – Vygotsky
• Monitor Model – Krashen
• Cognitive Theory – Piaget

7. Behaviorist Theory (B.F.
Skinner)
• Language learned through
imitation, repetition, and
reinforcement.
• Example: A child says
'mama' and is praised,
reinforcing the behavior.

8. Innatist Theory (Noam
Chomsky)
• Humans are born with a
Language Acquisition Device (LAD).
• Universal Grammar: all languages
share common underlying
structures.
• Emphasis on internal, biological
mechanisms.

9. Interactionist Theory (Lev
Vygotsky)
• Language development is a
result of social interaction.
• Zone of Proximal Development
(ZPD):
Learners acquire language
through support (scaffolding)
from more capable individuals.

10. Krashen’s Monitor Model
1. Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis
2. Monitor Hypothesis
3. Natural Order Hypothesis
4. Input Hypothesis
5. Affective Filter Hypothesis
• Emphasizes comprehensible input and
low-stress environment for acquisition.

11. Cognitive Theory (Jean
Piaget)
• Language is linked to
cognitive development.
• Children acquire
language as they develop
mentally through stages.

12. Principles of Language
Learning
• Motivation is critical.
• Comprehensible input/output aids
learning.
• Learners need opportunities for
interaction.
• Errors are natural and necessary.
• Culture and context matter.

13. Implications for Teaching
• Create a safe and engaging
environment.
• Provide real-life communication
situations.
• Balance between fluency and
accuracy.
• Scaffold instruction based on
learners’ needs.

14. Summary
• Language acquisition is natural;
learning is structured.
• Several theories explain how
we acquire language.
• Understanding these theories
helps improve teaching and
learning strategies.

15. Reflection / Discussion
Questions
• Which theory resonates most
with your own experience?
• How can teachers use these
principles in the classroom?
• What challenges do second
language learners face?

16. References:
• Brown, H.D. (2007). Principles of
Language Learning and Teaching.
• Krashen, S. (1982). Principles and
Practice in Second Language
Acquisition.
• Vygotsky, L. (1978). Mind in Society.
• Chomsky, N. (1965). Aspects of the
Theory of Syntax.