Second Language Acquisition

Second Language Acquisition (SLA) is the subfield of linguistics that investigates the process by which individuals learn any language subsequent to their native tongue. It examines how learners internalize the phonology, vocabulary, and grammar of a new language, often creating a dynamic system known as "interlanguage" that is influenced by their first language. Researchers in SLA explore the myriad cognitive, psychological, and social factors that affect this learning process, such as age, motivation, learning context, and instructional methods, with the dual goals of understanding the human capacity for language and improving the effectiveness of language education.

1. Introduction to Second Language Acquisition
   1. Defining Second Language Acquisition
      1. Definition and Scope of SLA
      2. Distinction from First Language Acquisition
         1. Age of Acquisition Effects
         2. Cognitive Differences
         3. Neurological Differences
         4. Input Characteristics
         5. Environmental Factors
      3. Distinction from Foreign Language Learning
         1. Learning Contexts
         2. Exposure Patterns
         3. Goals and Outcomes
         4. Motivation Types
   2. Core Questions in SLA
      1. What is Learned in SLA
         1. Linguistic Competence
         2. Communicative Competence
         3. Pragmatic Competence
         4. Sociolinguistic Competence
      2. How is a Second Language Learned
         1. Acquisition Processes
         2. Developmental Stages
         3. Learning Mechanisms
      3. Why Do Learners Vary
         1. Individual Differences
         2. Contextual Factors
         3. Social Factors
   3. Key Terminology in SLA
      1. Target Language
      2. Native Language
      3. Second Language
      4. Interlanguage
         1. Definition and Characteristics
         2. Systematicity
         3. Variability
         4. Development Over Time
      5. Fossilization
         1. Causes
         2. Manifestations
         3. Prevention Strategies
      6. Competence vs Performance
         1. Theoretical Distinctions
         2. Practical Implications