A COMPARISON BETWEEN FIRST- AND
SECOND-LANGUAGE ACQUISITION
Similarities:
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Both L1 (first language) and L2 (second language) learners construct
language from prior conceptual knowledge.
 Both L1 and L2 learners are active learners who test and revise hypotheses.
 Both L1 and L2 learners require an interactional process.
 Both L1 and L2 learners use cognitive strategies.
 Both L1 and L2 are aided by modified input.
 Both L1 and L2 learners develop language in predictable stages.
 Both L1 and L2 learners make developmental errors.
 Both L1 and L2 learners require a silent period.
(Similarities appear in the process of language acquisition)
Differences:
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L2 learner is usually cognitively more highly developed.
L2 learner generally has a greater knowledge of the world.
L2 learner can learn and apply rules more easily.
L2 learner usually has more control over the input.
L2 learner has an L1 as a resource.
L2 learner may have other second languages from which to draw.
L2 learner is familiar with one or more other cultures.
L2 learner may have a problem with attitude and/or motivation.
 L2 learner is more likely to be inhibited, anxious, and/or afraid of making
errors.
(Differences appear to lie in the areas of level of cognitive development and
affect)
Source: Richard-Amato, P. A. (1996). Making It Happen; Interaction in the
Second Language Classroom. Longman.