Comprehensible Input

Definition

Comprehensible input refers to language input that is understood by learners and is slightly above their current proficiency level, allowing them to acquire new language structures and vocabulary. This concept emphasizes the importance of providing learners with language that they can grasp while still being challenged, which plays a critical role in their linguistic development. The idea is that through exposure to this input, individuals can make sense of the language, ultimately leading to better language acquisition.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Comprehensible input is crucial for effective language learning, as it helps learners make connections between new and existing knowledge.
2. This concept emphasizes the need for interaction, where learners can negotiate meaning and receive feedback on their understanding.
3. Comprehensible input can come from various sources, including conversation, reading materials, and multimedia resources that are tailored to the learner's proficiency level.
4. Krashen argued that without sufficient comprehensible input, language acquisition would be hindered, leading to stagnation in language development.
5. Teachers can facilitate comprehensible input by adapting their language use, incorporating visuals, and engaging learners in meaningful contexts.

Review Questions

• How does comprehensible input influence the process of second language acquisition?
  • Comprehensible input significantly influences second language acquisition by providing learners with accessible yet challenging language exposure. When learners receive input that they can understand but that also stretches their current capabilities, they can make connections with existing knowledge and build upon it. This process not only enhances vocabulary acquisition but also improves grammatical understanding, facilitating overall language proficiency.
• Discuss the role of interaction in providing comprehensible input for learners and its impact on language acquisition.
  • Interaction plays a key role in delivering comprehensible input as it allows learners to actively engage with the language and negotiate meaning. Through conversations, discussions, or collaborative activities, learners are exposed to real-life use of language in context. This interactive process fosters a deeper understanding of linguistic structures and enables learners to receive immediate feedback, reinforcing their learning and helping them adjust their language use accordingly.
• Evaluate how teachers can effectively implement comprehensible input strategies in their classrooms to enhance student learning outcomes.
  • Teachers can effectively implement comprehensible input strategies by first assessing their students' current proficiency levels and then tailoring their language use accordingly. They should incorporate varied resources such as visuals, gestures, and contextualized examples to make the input more accessible. Additionally, using techniques like scaffolding allows teachers to gradually increase the complexity of tasks while ensuring students remain engaged. This approach not only promotes language comprehension but also encourages confidence and motivation among learners as they navigate their language acquisition journey.

Related terms

Input Hypothesis: The Input Hypothesis, proposed by Stephen Krashen, suggests that language acquisition occurs when learners are exposed to language input that is comprehensible yet slightly more advanced than their current level.

Second Language Acquisition (SLA): Second Language Acquisition refers to the process through which people learn a second language, highlighting the importance of interaction and meaningful communication in acquiring the new language.

Scaffolding: Scaffolding is a teaching strategy that involves providing support and guidance to learners as they develop new skills or knowledge, gradually removing assistance as they gain proficiency.