A little baby, babbling away, starts uttering words one by one and eventually forms sentences. Why does the process of acquiring a mother tongue feel so natural? It’s because, from parents or the surroundings, they consistently and sufficiently absorb that language. So, how can you learn English as a second language when it’s not your native tongue?
Stephen Krashen, well known for his work in establishing a general theory of second language acquisition, calls the process of unconsciously acquiring language “language acquisition,” much like how children grasp their mother tongue. He argues that adults, too, can acquire a second language through “acquisition,” not just “learning.”
|
Acquisition |
Learning |
| Subconscious “picking up” of language | Conscious study of language |
| Focus on meaning | Focus on form (grammar) |
| Implicit – unaware of learning | Explicit – aware of learning (rules) |
| Focus on input | Focus on output |
| Spontaneous meaningful output | Forced output above the level of understanding |
Acquisition happens through “comprehensible input,” which is language that is a step beyond the learner’s current level of language proficiency. This keeps learners interested and engaged to learn a new language. The ideal conditions for language acquisition include:
- Comprehensible input
- Interesting and/or relevant input
- Not grammatically sequenced input
- Sufficient quantity of input
Krashen claims that meeting these conditions effectively enhances improving language skills. The key is for learners to be aware that they are using language for communication rather than consciously learning it.
“Language is best taught when it is being used to transmit messages, not when it is explicitly taught for conscious learning.” – Stephen Krashen
Of course, there are criticisms of this theory. Some scholars argue that foreign language learning can also evolve through repeated “learning” and practice. As a learner aspiring to speak English as a second language, you can embrace the benefits of both hypotheses. Naturally “acquire” language while consciously “learn” the forms and rules to enhance your English proficiency.
In the Cake app, there are various Classes categorized by levels. Choose one class, and try watching the lectures without subtitles. If you can understand more than half of the expressions, continue with that class. If less, opt for a class with an easier level. At this stage, accurately assessing your skills and gradually expanding your understanding of expressions is crucial.
On the Home tab, you can also acquire English through various short clips. Many contents in the Cake app are structured with minimum sentences that help you understand conversational context. Similarly, try to comprehend communication in videos without subtitles. The Cake app will be a great help in maintaining your interest, as it offers content on topics you find intriguing, in various genres.
Adopting a new language that isn’t your native tongue is challenging for everyone. However, exposing yourself consistently to that language in your surroundings will undoubtedly enhance your skills. Utilize the diverse content in the Cake app in a way that benefits you.