Second Language Learning Beliefs Survey

Languages are learned mainly through imitation.

Parents usually correct young children when they make grammatical errors.

Some people have a special talent for learning languages.

The most important predictor of success in second language acquisition is motivation.

The earlier a second language is introduced in school programmes, the greater the likelihood of success in learning.

Most of the mistakes that second language learners make are due to interference from their first language.

The best way to learn new vocabulary is through reading.

It is essential for learners to be able to pronounce all the individual sounds in the second language.

Once learners know 1,000 words and the basic structure of a second language, they can easily participate in conversations with native speakers.

Teachers should present grammatical rules one at a time, and learners should practise examples of each one before going on to another.

Teachers should teach simple language structures before complex ones.

Learners' errors should be corrected as soon as they are made in order to prevent the formation of bad habits.

Teachers should use materials that expose students only to language structures they have already been taught.

When learners are allowed to interact freely (for example, in group or pair activities), they copy each other's mistakes.

Students learn what they are taught.

Teachers should respond to students' errors by correctly rephrasing what they have said rather than by explicitly pointing out the error.

Students can learn both language and academic content (for example, science and history) simultaneously in classes where the subject matter is taught in their second language.

Classrooms are good places to learn about language but not for learning how to use language.