On teaching strategies in second language acquisition

Abstract: How to acquire a second language is a question of obvious importance to teachers and language learners, and how to teach a second language has also become a matter of concern to the linguists ’ interest in the nature of primary linguistic data. Starting with the development stages of second language acquisition and Stephen Krashen’s theory, this paper puts forward teaching strategies: analyzing learner characteristics, signing classroom contracts, creating learner-centered classroom, setting language goals, integrating theory with practice and building learner motivation. Key words: teaching strategies; theory; second language acquisition An understanding of second language acquisition can improve the ability of mainstream teachers to serve the culturally and linguistically diverse students in their classrooms. While significant professional development is necessary to gain a full understanding of second language acquisition theory, some key stages, theories and teaching strategies can be quickly understood and applied in the classroom. 1. Development stages of second language acquisition One concept endorsed by most current theorists is that of a continuum of learning—that is, predictable and sequential stages of second language development, in which the learner progresses from no knowledge of the new language to a level of competency closely resembling that of a native speaker. These theories have resulted in th