Factors Affecting Second Language Acquisition

Second language acquisition refers to the process in which an individual learns and acquires a second language after their native language has been established. Each individual who acquires a second language develops their skills at different rates, depending on factors that influence their language learning. These factors include, but are not limited to, age of first exposure, formal language instruction, and access to a native speaker. The focus of this project is to identify the factors that influenced the language acquisition of two individuals who acquired English as a second language. The two subjects are interviewed and asked the same set of questions regarding their experiences as they learned English. Their responses are then compared to determine the factors that caused the differences in their English proficiency levels. As a result of this research, two variables are determined to be the most influential on the subjects\u27 second language acquisition. Other factors that impacted their language proficiency are also identified and discussed