A novel approach is examined for using developmental sequence data for deciding between Universal Grammar-based and problem solving models of adult nonnative grammatical development. Results support the Universal Grammar-based model of nonnative language acquisition. (19 references) (Author/LB)

Using Scotton's model of codeswitching based on markedness theory, this paper examines a type of register variation known as "babytalk," defined as ambiguous talk of babies or young children and talk to babies or young children. It is argued that babytalk and the voice of authority are motivated by Chinese cultural assumptions about…

Two beginning learners of English were followed over a two-year period. In the early stages of acquisition, both developed a common learner variety determined by minimal requirements of the required tasks. One learner developed further morphosyntactic means to achieve greater cohesion in discourse but the other did not. Implications are discussed.…

Specific studies are used to discuss three approaches to examining language teacher training programs. Points considered are teacher training programs do not provide enough training in affective areas; they do not have an adequate definition of teacher training; and they can do little to change basic perceptions about teaching and learning. (11…

This paper reviews the research on speech perception and reassesses the contribution of innate capacities versus external stimulation in conjunction with age in first- and second-language acquisition. A developmental model of speech perception is then discussed in relation to neonatal auditory perception. (Contains 86 references.) (MDM)

Argues that Benesch's charge that pragmatism in English for academic purposes (EAP) indicates an accommodationist ideology and an endorsement of current power relations in academia and society is ideologically motivated. Benesch responds by arguing that those who ignore questions of power participate in maintaining the low status of EAP students…

Examined spontaneous teacher/child discourse in two year-one Sydney classrooms, one where the majority of children came from non-English-speaking backgrounds and one where all children were native English speakers. Significant differences existed between the discourse in each classroom in terms of the frequency of the teacher's speech and the…

Explores the language learning and social adaptation of five immigrant women by using diaries and critical dialogue for collaborative research. Highlights the construct of social identity as central to the adaptation process. Advocates critical reflection by students on the process of identity negotiation, especially through diary-keeping. (HB)

The claim that multiple-birth children use "twin language" was investigated by describing and comparing the phonological characteristics of the speech of 19 sets of multiple birth children (aged 2-4) and by measuring multiple-birth children's understanding of their twins' or triplets' context-free speech. Results indicated that multiple…

A blind child and her sighted twin sister were recorded at home once a month from 2;5 to 3;5, and their repetitions and routines were analyzed with respect to three dimensions. Results showed that the blind twin used routines and modified imitations and repetitions more frequently, and her use of modified repetitions increased during the study.…

Finds important differences between Quebecois and French mothers: the Quebecois mothers spoke more than French mothers and produced a greater number of assertive and expressive speech acts than the French mothers. Shows that speech used in both of these cultural groups varies according to the mother's child-rearing style, with coercive mothers…

Assesses two apparently contradictory factors that may affect the acquisition of grammatical concord in a second language: (1) efficient deletion of redundant elements; and (2) facilitation or priming through repeated marking of grammatical information. The results of a study of written compositions by French and Japanese learners of English…

Studies second and third grade Spanish and English native speakers' proficiency in both languages and academic achievement, following exposure to extended-length bilingual/immersion program. Considers theoretical assumptions regarding language-thought relationship. Results link bilingualism and achievement. Identifies two language-proficiency…

Ways that conversations among family members provide data useful for drawing conclusions about intrafamily relationships are examined. Unique contributions of both deductive and inductive paradigms to the study of parent-child interaction are discussed. Contains 65 references. (Author/LB)

Discusses (1) the new perspective on children's capabilities provided by focus on discourse; (2) conversation with an older member of the culture as a context for development; (3) links between linguistic and cognitive development; and (4) children as a member of a culture from infancy onward. Developmental changes and problems in discourse study…