The Age Effect on the Acquisition of the Phonological System of L2

Some of the most commonly asked questions concerning foreign/second language learning and teaching are whether it is possible to acquire the phonological system of L2 perfectly and reach native -like or near-native proficiency in pronunciation and whether the best age for acquiring the phonological system of L2 is before puberty or after puberty. Many articles and books written in this regard have been reviewed and conflicting viewpoints have been weighed against one another. Some researchers believe that there is no barrier to acquiring native-like proficiency and provide evidence that some people perfectly acquire a language although they have started learning it after their puberty. However; others believe that after puberty the acquisition becomes increasingly demanding and foreign accent is distinguishable in learners' speech. In the end it is concluded that there is an overall consensus among researchers that the best age for the acquisition of the phonology of L2 is before puberty and it is possible to reach near- native proficiency in L2 or a foreign language although it is difficult. However; further research is needed to confirm the findings.

کلیدواژه ها:

Phonology ، Native-like pronunciation ، Puberty ، Acquisition