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TMN3701 Assignment 2 Due 9 May 2024

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QUESTION 1

1.1. Discuss the critical period hypothesis and indicate whether it has any
relevance to language acquisition and language learning. Substantiate your
answer.
On page 68 of the study guide explains critical period hypothesis (CPH) suggests
that there’s a specific time in life when humans are best able to learn certain skills,
including language. According to this theory, the critical period for language
acquisition is from birth to around 10 years old. During this time, the brain is highly
adaptable, or plastic, making it easier for children to learn languages effortlessly and
with native-like pronunciation.

But, the CPH has faced criticism and isn’t universally accepted. Some argue that the
reason adults don’t learn second languages as easily as children is due to factors like
time constraints, social pressure, and fear of making mistakes. Adults often have
higher expectations of language proficiency, which can lead to frustration and hinder
learning.

Research shows that adults can still succeed in learning second languages,