ISSN : 1229-0718
Timing of exposure to an L2 is critical for maximizing language acquisition. Research from behavioral and brain studies has given rise to 4 main hypotheses regarding the L2 critical period. The hypotheses are as follows: (1) The critical period of L2 is equal to that of L1; (2) The first year of experience is decisive for acquiring L2 sounds; (3) Plasticity is progressively lost as one gets older, and; (4) Language sub-processes are differentially sensitive to biological time. The current paper reviews studies on these four lines of research within the framework of Greenough's and O'Connor's developmental models. Based on the present review, we suggest that earlier exposure to L2 is desirable for the second language acquisition. However, the length and the onset of the language ability was debatable according to the four topics of the research area. Elaboration of task-specific timetables in L2 acquisition was suggested to draw fuller educational implications.
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