Introduction to Second Language Acquisition (SLA)

In today's world, where knowing more than one language is almost as common as using a smartphone, many of us find ourselves learning a second language (L2) at some point. More than half of people worldwide are doing this. But why does learning a new language feel different from the one we grew up speaking? And why do some find it easy, while others struggle? To answer these questions, the following four lessons will teach us about the most important aspects of second language acquisition.

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Understanding the Basics of L2 Learning (Lesson 1): We start by looking at how learning a second language is different from acquiring your first. We also look at all the components needed to master a new language effectively, which includes more than simply learning vocabulary and grammar rules.

When is the Best Time to Learn a New Language? (Lesson 2): Next, we'll explore if there's a “best age” to learn a new language. Think of it like this: is it easier to learn how to skateboard when you're young or when you're older? We'll see how this idea applies to language learning and why even if you start later, you can still become really good at a new language.

How Your Brain Works with New Languages (Lesson 3): Here, we dive into the way our brains handle new languages. Just as how playing different video games can improve different skills, using a language you're learning (through listening, reading, speaking, and writing) exercises your brain in unique ways. We'll also look at how today's digital world, with movies, games, and apps, can be a playground for learning a new language.

What Drives You to Learn Languages? (Lesson 4): Finally, we'll talk about what motivates you to learn. Is it because you love the language and the culture, or is it because it might help you get a good job one day? We'll also touch on the feelings that come with learning a language, like the excitement of being able to understand a song in another language or the nervousness of speaking it with L1 speakers.

These four lessons are like pieces of a puzzle. As we go through them, you'll see how understanding the basics, knowing the best time to learn, figuring out how your brain works with new languages, and recognizing your own motivations and feelings all fit together to make the picture of learning a new language clearer. Click on the image to get your journey started!