1. Discuss in what ways, and to what extent, a theory such as Universal Grammar can or cannot explain the nature of language development. Use evidence from first and second language acquisition, bilingualism and language attrition when appropriate.
2. What are the advantages and disadvantages of learning a second language as an adult?
3. What are the similarities and differences between first and second language acquisition? How does Universal Grammar account for these differences?
4. How have transfer and fossilisation been accounted for in SLA theory? What do these phenomena tell us about different stages of the acquisition process?
5. Make a profile your own strengths and weaknesses/ successes and failures as an L2 learner, with evidence drawn from a particular moment in your learning career. How far can this personal profile be explained by learner-external (social) factors, and how far by learner-internal factors?
6. What is the contribution of L2 input to L2 acquisition? Discuss with reference to at least two different theoretical perspectives (e.g. the Interaction Hypothesis, connectionist theory, Universal Grammar).
7. How can generative SLA inform language teaching? Should teachers know about SLA theory?
The reflective essay will be assessed according to the standard Level 3 Modern Languages essay criteria.
