Stages Of Second Language Acquisition

Front 1

Silent/Receptive Stage

Back 1

*Also Known as the “sponge period.”
* Concentrate completely on trying to figure out meaning of words.
* Listen, point, match, move, draw, mime, choose, act out.

Front 2

Early Production Stage

Back 2

* Listening comprehension is still the main focus; speech starts to emerge naturally; beginning speech with short phrases, 2-6 words, without regard for grammar.
*List categorize, label, repeat, copy, extend patterns, answer with brief response, answer yes/no questions, complete short word strings, volunteer information.

Front 3

Speech Emergence

Back 3

* Speech production starts to improve if comprehensible input is provided; sentences become longer as they become more complex with a wider vocabulary range; Students gradually begin to correct grammar.
*Summarize, recall, explain, define, contrast, dialogue, narrate, compare, use humor retell, complete 3-word strings, produce short phrases, maintain long discourse, use longer phrases, complete sentences.

Front 4

Intermediate Fluency

Back 4

Exposure to good English language models gives students the opportunity to interact with fluent English speakers, will develop excellent comprehension; speech will reflect fewer grammatical errors.
*Analyze, give options, create, debate, evaluate, justify, examine, defend, use technical jargon, use idioms, use sarcasm, use figurative language.