What is the definition of input in language learning?
Target language processed for meaning, not just exposure
Learners must understand it to form form–meaning connections and build a usable linguistic system.
What distinguishes effective input from non-effective input?
- Effective input: Tasks requiring comprehension
- Non-effective input: Tasks done without understanding
Effective input fosters acquisition, while non-effective input does not contribute to understanding.
What is the core idea regarding input in language acquisition?
Input must compel learners to understand the message
Without comprehension, activities don’t contribute to acquisition.
Define comprehensible input hypothesis.
Language acquisition requires comprehensible input slightly beyond learners’ current competence
Input is essential; without understanding input, acquisition cannot occur.
What are the practical advice points for providing input?
- Ensure most input is comprehensible
- Avoid extremes: too difficult or too easy
Learners should be comfortable with partial comprehension.
What role does the teacher play as an input source?
Teacher talk is often the main input learners receive
Must be comprehensible; otherwise, it’s just noise and causes frustration.
List strategies to aid comprehension without translation.
- Visual cues
- Body language
- Simple target-language equivalents
- Examples and associations
- Cognates
- Slowing down, simplifying, rephrasing
Quick translation can be used sparingly, but overuse discourages learners from processing meaning.
What are resources made for language learners?
- Graded readers
- Scripted videos
- Short cultural clips
These resources are easier to understand and boost confidence but may feel artificial.
Define authentic resources in language learning.
- Real-world texts
- Videos
- Music
- Art
- Ads
- Social media posts
They provide rich cultural content but can be harder to comprehend without scaffolding.
What is the role of input in language acquisition?
Input provides the data learners need to build a linguistic system
Without it, no acquisition occurs.
What is necessary for form–meaning connections in language learning?
Learners link words and grammar to meaning through comprehension
Example: ‘wug’ + picture → learners connect form to meaning (a bird).
What is the significance of repeated exposure in language acquisition?
Acquisition requires multiple meaningful encounters
One exposure is rarely enough.
What is the key takeaway regarding vocabulary and grammar acquisition?
Both are acquired through input, not separately
Communication requires them in combination, not compartmentalized drills.
