This study builds on prior research on second language (L2) Spanish psych verbs, which has centered on morphosyntactic properties, by examining their syntactic distribution, which relies on lexical semantic knowledge. The fact that certain forms are licensed for some verbs, but not others, is the result of an underlying lexical semantic difference…

This study tests the Competing Systems Hypothesis (CSH) as applied to adult second language acquisition of aspect in Spanish. The CSH purports that differences among tutored and untutored learners result from competition between one system of underlying grammatical knowledge and another of learned metalinguistic knowledge in tutored learners…

Responds to Gregg's discussion of the author's arguments on the nativism controversy. Addresses the issue of whether a theory of second language acquisition (SLA) must include a theory of grammar. Proposes that it remains to be decided whether a theory of SLA requires a theory of grammar. (four references) (CK)

Focuses on Eckman's (1996) discussion of the nativism controversy. This article supplements Eckman's discussion and argues in favor of a generative approach to second language acquisition theory, specifically for an autonomous and modular grammatical theory. (five references) (CK)

This study examined whether a younger starting age is advantageous in a situation of minimal exposure to an instructed foreign language ([less than or equal] 4 hours classroom contact per week). Previous theoretical and empirical studies indicated there should be no advantage for an earlier start. Japanese college students who started studying…

This article uses diary data to examine a British learner's self-study experience of Hungarian, with reference to lexis. From this learner's experience, it is suggested that building a working lexicon is the single most important task facing the learner. (40 references) (MDM)