Metalinguistic awareness in the acquisition of German as a third language : the role of L2 proficiency

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Abstract/Contents

Abstract
As part of the Dynamic Model of Multilingualism (DMM), Herdina & Jessner (2002) cite multilinguals' increased metalinguistic awareness as one of the key factors that distinguish third language acquisition from second language acquisition. Many TLA studies have sought to show that this increased metalinguistic awareness and the beneficial effects that it has on L3 language learning is related to the number of languages known by an individual. The current study, however, questions whether multiple language-learning experiences alone are enough to influence metalinguistic awareness and L3 learning ability and investigates the role of L2 proficiency. Similar to Cummins' (1976) threshold hypothesis with regard to the relationship between degree of bilingualism and metalinguistic awareness, the current study seeks to determine whether some threshold level of proficiency must be achieved in at least one of an individual's second languages before the benefits of increased metalinguistic awareness as they relate to L3 learning can be observed. In order to investigate the relationship between language proficiency, metalinguistic awareness, and subsequent language learning ability; the current study examines the performance of university students at low versus high L2 proficiency on tests of German language attainment after approximately 45 minutes of interactive, communicative online instruction in German as a third language.

Description

Type of resource text
Form electronic; electronic resource; remote
Extent 1 online resource.
Publication date 2017
Issuance monographic
Language English

Creators/Contributors

Associated with Neely, Fayola Alike
Associated with Stanford University, Department of German Studies.
Primary advisor Bernhardt, Elizabeth B. (Elizabeth Buchter), 1954-
Thesis advisor Bernhardt, Elizabeth B. (Elizabeth Buchter), 1954-
Thesis advisor Berman, Russell A, 1950-
Thesis advisor Hakuta, Kenji
Advisor Berman, Russell A, 1950-
Advisor Hakuta, Kenji

Subjects

Genre Theses

Bibliographic information

Statement of responsibility Fayola Alike Neely.
Note Submitted to the Department of German Studies.
Thesis Thesis (Ph.D.)--Stanford University, 2017.
Location electronic resource

Access conditions

Copyright
© 2017 by Fayola Neely

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