ERIC Number: EJ1151434
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2017-Sep
Pages: 29
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0023-8333
EISSN: N/A
Effects of Sound, Vocabulary, and Grammar Learning Aptitude on Adult Second Language Speech Attainment in Foreign Language Classrooms
Saito, Kazuya
Language Learning, v67 n3 p665-693 Sep 2017
This study examines the relationship between different types of language learning aptitude (measured via the LLAMA test) and adult second language (L2) learners' attainment in speech production in English-as-a-foreign-language (EFL) classrooms. Picture descriptions elicited from 50 Japanese EFL learners from varied proficiency levels were analyzed through a range of pronunciation, fluency, vocabulary, and grammar measures. Results indicated that the learners' aptitude test scores in phonemic coding, rote and associative memory, and language analytic ability were moderately associated with the phonological/morphological accuracy, fluency, and lexicogrammar complexity of production, which are linguistic aspects thought to be instrumental in the acquisition of advanced L2 oral ability. In contrast, aptitude--proficiency links were not found with respect to relatively implicit and incidental learning aptitude (sound recognition) and foundational aspects of proficiency (appropriate use of frequent words).
Descriptors: Second Language Learning, Adults, Speech Skills, English (Second Language), Foreign Countries, Pictorial Stimuli, Language Aptitude, Pronunciation, Language Fluency, Vocabulary, Grammar, Scores, Phonemics, Memory, Language Skills, Correlation, Phonological Awareness, Morphology (Languages), Accuracy
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Japan
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A