The document discusses several factors related to second language learning and the brain. It covers the critical period hypothesis, brain lateralization, brain maturation, and the role of social and cultural factors in language acquisition. Specifically, it notes that the young brain is more plastic and able to recover from trauma. Both hemispheres contribute to language learning, but different functions are specialized in each. Higher-order language skills mature earlier than lower-order skills. Finally, social and cultural influences beyond just the brain also impact second language learning.

1. Second Language Learning and the Brain Akeila Benjamin Kiyomi Andrada

2. Scientific “Foundation” Critical Period Hypothesis: Biological timetable for language aquisition Plasticity Property of the young brain: not yet specified Able to recover more easily from trauma As the brain develops, different areas start to specialize in different tasks

3. Hemisphere Lateralization Left Hemisphere Intellectual, logical, and analytical functions are commonly found in this region of the brain. Language functions are found in this hemisphere as well. Right Hemisphere Controls functions that are related to emotional and social needs. Controversy over whether the right hemisphere plays a role in learning a language. Participation of the right hem. Occurs during early stages of learning second language. Guessing at meanings & formulating utterances (examples of right hem. activity) Second Language learners might benefit from more encouragement of right brain activity in classroom.

4. Maturation of the Brain Higher-order functions Early maturing neural circuits Ex. Pronunciation: difficult to overcome accents after childhood Lower-order functions Late maturing neural circuits Ex. Semantics: college students can learn grammar and vocab faster than elementary students

5. Anthropological Standpoint Jane Hill (Anthropologist) Studied the Tukano Culture They spoke at least two dozen languages because each tribal group married outside of their community; hence enhancing their knowledge in a variety of languages. As person approaches older age, they can acquire more languages. There are other aspects that play a vital role in language acquisition besides the “cerebral dominance theory” such as social and cultural roles.

6. Connections to Teaching ESL Emphasis on teaching second languages during the critical period Identify which aspects of language will be easier/harder for different ages and target those aspects Emphasis on learning styles of the students Take into consideration ways to motivate students to learn