TKT Unit 12

Differences between L1 and

L2 Learning
By
Porntip Bodeepongse
 Task: Discussion
• What differences are between L1 and
L2 learning?

• Where does L1 learning usually occur?

What about L2 learning?

• Work in groups of 3-4 to complete

the task on the worksheet.
• L2 Learning sometimes takes place
outside the classroom when children or
adults pick up language.
• L2 learners often do not get much
exposure to the language as L1 learners
and may not be motivated to learn.
• L1 learning is nearly always fully
successful, while L2 learning varies a lot
in how successful it is.
 Key concepts
• FL learners need to:
– be exposed to a rich variety of
language
– use the language to communicate and
interact
– Have opportunities to focus on form
 Key concepts (cont.)
• Motivation is very important in language
learning.
• Some learners may find a silent period
useful, but adult learners may not.
• Encourage Ss to use English as much as
possible in order to increase their
exposure to it.
 Key concepts (cont.)
• Learners are different from one
another so we should try to personalise
our teaching to match Ss’ learning needs
and preferences by varying our:
– teaching style
– teaching approaches
– teaching or learning materials
– topics
– etc.
 Key concepts (cont.)
• We should simplify our language to the
level that learners can learn from and
avoid correcting them too much.
• Learners need to build up their fluency,
motivation and confidence and to have
opportunities to pick up and experiment
with language.