FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What is it called when an ESOL student uses their first language to aid in acquiring English?

1. Language acquisition

2. Language transfer

3. Language diffusion

4. Language interference

The correct answer is: Language diffusion

The process in which an ESOL student uses their first language to assist in learning English is referred to as language transfer. This occurs when knowledge or skills from a student's native language are applied to the process of learning a new language. For example, a student might draw on vocabulary, grammar rules, or pronunciation patterns from their first language as they navigate English, using these familiar elements to facilitate their understanding and usage of the new language. Language transfer plays a crucial role in the acquisition of a second language, as it can help students make connections between what they already know and what they are learning. This strategy can enhance their comprehension and speed of learning during the transition to English, often resulting in a smoother learning experience. In contrast, language interference refers to errors or difficulties that arise when the first language negatively impacts the second language learning process, which is not what is happening in the scenario presented. Language acquisition is a broader term that covers the entire process of learning a language without specifically referring to the use of the first language. Language diffusion typically involves the spread of languages and language features across regions, which also does not directly pertain to the individual student's learning process.