The Comprehensible Input Hypothesis

Summary

The transcript discusses Stephen Krashen's theory of 'comprehensible input' in language learning. It explains that input is the language we are exposed to, and comprehensible input is language slightly beyond our current understanding (I+1). This concept suggests that gradual exposure to slightly more complex language than we currently understand facilitates learning. The theory also touches on the potential difficulty for learners to identify their current level and the next level of difficulty, and the concept of 'fossilization' where learners stop progressing. The summary highlights the importance of I+1 in promoting language acquisition.

Takeaways

• 🌐 Input in language learning refers to the language a learner is exposed to, including both spoken and written forms.
• 👶 Comprehensible input is the key to language acquisition, which means learners need to understand the language they are exposed to.
• 📈 The concept of 'I plus 1' suggests that language learning occurs when learners are exposed to input slightly beyond their current level of understanding.
• 🚫 If learners are only exposed to language at their current level (I), they may reach a plateau and stop progressing, known as fossilization.
• 🔍 Identifying the right level of 'I plus 1' can be challenging for language learners, especially second language learners.
• 📚 The script discusses the importance of gradually increasing the complexity of language input to facilitate learning.
• 🔄 Comprehensible input is not just about simple language; it's about language that is complex enough to push learners to the next level.
• 👨‍🏫 The script introduces the idea that language learning is a gradual process, moving from easier to slightly more difficult language structures.
• 🤔 The concept of comprehensible input is also related to the sociocultural theory of language learning, particularly the zone of proximal development.
• 👂 Listening to language that is just beyond one's current understanding can help learners to develop their language skills over time.

Q & A

What is the concept of 'input' in language learning?

In language learning, 'input' refers to the language that individuals are exposed to, which can be in spoken or written form. It includes the language they hear or read, such as conversations, books, or any other verbal communication.

Why is it sometimes difficult to understand certain language input?

It can be difficult to understand certain language input because it may be beyond one's current level of language proficiency. For instance, a young learner might understand simple sentences but struggle with complex structures like conditional sentences.

What is 'comprehensible input' in the context of language learning?

Comprehensible input is the language input that is understandable to the learner. It is slightly more challenging than what the learner currently understands but not so difficult that it becomes overwhelming.

How does the 'I plus 1' formula relate to comprehensible input?

The 'I plus 1' formula suggests that for effective language learning, learners should be exposed to input that is just beyond their current level of understanding ('I' represents the current level, and 'plus 1' represents the next level of difficulty).

What happens if a language learner is only exposed to input at their current level (I)?

If a learner is only exposed to input at their current level, they may reach a point where they stop making progress, known as 'fossilization,' where they become stagnant in their language development.

What is the role of 'I plus 1' in gradual language learning?

The 'I plus 1' concept facilitates gradual language learning by encouraging learners to continuously move from their current level to the next slightly more challenging level, promoting incremental development.

How does the concept of comprehensible input relate to the sociocultural theory of language learning?

In the sociocultural theory, the concept of comprehensible input is similar to the idea of the 'zone of proximal development,' which is the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with assistance.

What is the criticism regarding the identification of comprehensible input for second language learners?

The criticism is that it can be challenging for second language learners to identify what is at their current level of understanding and what is slightly difficult, making it hard to apply the 'I plus 1' formula accurately.

Can you provide an example of how a learner might progress through the 'I plus 1' model?

A learner might start by understanding basic vocabulary (I), then move on to simple sentences (I plus 1), then to more complex sentences and structures, continually advancing their language skills by taking on slightly more challenging input.

How does the concept of comprehensible input apply to language learning in schools?

In schools, the concept is applied by introducing students to language structures that are slightly more challenging than what they currently know, gradually increasing the difficulty as they progress through grades.

What is the importance of exposure to slightly difficult language input according to the script?

Exposure to slightly difficult language input is crucial for language learning as it pushes learners to understand and use language structures just beyond their current abilities, facilitating growth and development.