Full Answer Section

Nature theories of language acquisition argue that we are born with a natural ability to learn language. This ability is thought to be hardwired into our brains. Nature theories are supported by the fact that all children, regardless of their culture or environment, learn language in a similar way.

Nurture theories of language acquisition argue that we learn language through interaction with our environment. This interaction includes exposure to language, feedback from others, and opportunities to practice using language. Nurture theories are supported by the fact that children who are not exposed to language do not learn it as easily.

The following are some of the most common theories of language acquisition:

• The nativist theory: This theory argues that we are born with a universal grammar, which is a set of rules that all languages share. This universal grammar allows us to learn any language that we are exposed to.
• The cognitive theory: This theory argues that we learn language through a process of cognitive development. This process involves the development of our attention, memory, and other cognitive abilities.
• The social-interactionist theory: This theory argues that we learn language through interaction with others. This interaction includes exposure to language, feedback from others, and opportunities to practice using language.

What are the basic guidelines to be followed to teach a language?

The following are some of the basic guidelines to be followed to teach a language:

• Start with the basics: This includes teaching the learner the basic sounds, words, and grammar of the language.
• Make it relevant: The learner should be able to see the relevance of what they are learning to their own lives.
• Be patient: Learning a new language takes time and effort.
• Provide opportunities for practice: The learner should have opportunities to practice using the language in real-world situations.
• Be positive and encouraging: The learner should feel comfortable making mistakes and taking risks.

Identify the things to be considered for teaching pronunciation to Intermediate level English learners.

The following are some of the things to be considered for teaching pronunciation to Intermediate level English learners:

• The learner’s native language: The learner’s native language can influence their pronunciation of English.
• The learner’s level of proficiency: The learner’s level of proficiency will affect the amount of time and effort they need to put into pronunciation practice.
• The learner’s motivation: The learner’s motivation to improve their pronunciation will also affect their success.
• The teacher’s skills and knowledge: The teacher should have the skills and knowledge to teach pronunciation effectively.
• The teaching materials: The teaching materials should be appropriate for the learner’s level and needs.

Write a note on Word Stress.

Word stress is the emphasis placed on certain syllables in a word. It is important for learners to be aware of word stress because it can affect the meaning of the word. For example, the word “contract” can mean either “to make a legal agreement” or “to shorten” depending on where the stress is placed.

There are a few different ways to teach word stress. One way is to use a chart that shows the stressed syllable in each word. Another way is to use audio recordings of words being pronounced correctly. Learners can also practice identifying the stressed syllables in words by listening to them and repeating them aloud.

Describe the following terms:

• Phoneme: A phoneme is the smallest unit of sound in a language.
• Morpheme: A morpheme is the smallest unit of meaning in a language.
• Syntax: Syntax is the study of how words are put together to form sentences.
• Semantics: Semantics is the study of meaning in language.
• Pragmatics: Pragmatics is the study of how language is used in context.