How To Learn a Language | Stephen Krashen's 5 Theories Explained

Summary

In this video, the speaker challenges traditional language learning methods, emphasizing that fluency comes from acquiring language through communication, not grammar drills. Drawing on Steven D. Krashen's five key theories, the video explains how language is best acquired through understanding input (listening and reading), and how emotional states can influence learning. The speaker encourages learners to focus on real-world language use, such as watching TV shows or having conversations, rather than obsessing over grammar rules. The key message: language is a skill, like riding a bike, and should be acquired naturally and enjoyably.

Takeaways

• 😀 Language learning systems are broken and do not align with effective language acquisition research that has been around for decades.
• 😀 Steven D. Krashen's research on language acquisition highlights the difference between learning and acquisition, with acquisition being more effective for fluency.
• 😀 Fluency comes from subconscious language acquisition, not memorizing grammar rules.
• 😀 The input hypothesis suggests that listening and reading material slightly above your current level helps the brain acquire language effectively.
• 😀 Perfect input is language that is challenging but still understandable, like TV shows with subtitles or podcasts where you understand most of the content.
• 😀 Grammar rules learned in a classroom can create a 'monitor' that interrupts fluency by making speakers overthink their sentences.
• 😀 Focus on input, not output (speaking and writing), as it is the key to fluency and accuracy in language.
• 😀 The emotional state of learners plays a significant role in language acquisition, as stress and anxiety can block the brain from absorbing input.
• 😀 Language classes should focus on fun, interesting content that helps lower the emotional filter, making it easier to acquire language.
• 😀 Krashen's natural order hypothesis shows that grammar is acquired in a specific order, which does not always align with how it's taught in classrooms.
• 😀 Advanced grammar rules may be understood intellectually but not automatically acquired by the brain until later, which is why learners can make basic mistakes even when they know more complex rules.

Q & A

What is the key difference between acquisition and learning in Krashen's theories?

Krashen distinguishes between 'acquisition' and 'learning'. Acquisition is a subconscious process where language is understood through reading and listening, while learning is a conscious process that involves memorizing rules and facts. Fluency comes from acquisition, not learning.

How does the Input Hypothesis contribute to language learning?

The Input Hypothesis suggests that language is acquired when we are exposed to input that is just beyond our current level, referred to as '5 + 1'. This ensures the input is challenging but still comprehensible, promoting natural language acquisition.

Why is grammar considered a barrier to fluency in Krashen’s Monitor Hypothesis?

According to the Monitor Hypothesis, grammar rules, which are consciously learned, can slow down fluency. When learners try to apply these rules while speaking, it disrupts the flow of natural conversation, making language production less fluent.

What role does emotion play in language acquisition according to the Affective Filter Hypothesis?

The Affective Filter Hypothesis posits that emotional states affect language learning. If learners feel stressed or anxious, their ability to acquire language decreases. Positive emotions, such as feeling relaxed and confident, help lower the 'affective filter' and enhance learning.

How does Krashen's Natural Order Hypothesis explain the sequence of grammar acquisition?

The Natural Order Hypothesis suggests that grammar is acquired in a predictable order, not based on the order it's taught. Some grammar structures are learned earlier, while others, like third-person singular, are acquired later, regardless of their logical complexity.

Why do traditional language classes often fail to produce fluent speakers, according to Krashen?

Traditional language classes focus too heavily on grammar rules and memorization, which don’t promote fluency. Krashen argues that fluency is gained through natural language acquisition via comprehensible input, not through conscious learning of rules.

What is the impact of comprehensible input on language learning?

Comprehensible input is key to language acquisition. It involves reading and listening to content that learners can mostly understand, but which pushes them slightly beyond their current level, helping them acquire language naturally without overwhelming them.

How can learners use TV shows and podcasts to improve their language skills?

Learners can use TV shows and podcasts with subtitles or that match their language level to expose themselves to comprehensible input. This allows them to learn by understanding most of what they hear while stretching their comprehension with occasional new vocabulary.

Why is it important for language learning to be enjoyable?

Language learning needs to be enjoyable to keep the brain engaged and prevent it from shutting down due to boredom. When learning is fun, such as through interesting content or enjoyable conversations, it promotes better acquisition and retention.

What does Krashen mean by 'acquiring' language as opposed to 'learning' it?

Krashen’s theory emphasizes that acquiring language is a subconscious process that occurs naturally through exposure and understanding. In contrast, learning involves conscious memorization and the application of rules. Acquisition leads to fluency, while learning often results in only theoretical knowledge.