The following paper focuses on bilingual first language acquisition (BFLA).
While there is a quantity of fields researched in BFLA, the arguably prior question concerns the development of bilingual learners in comparison to monolingual learners regarding the developmental path and [the] timecourse of language development. This question is based on the assumption, that the acquisition of two languages might challenge a language learner, thereby impeding their process in comparison to monolingual child- learners.
To illuminate the different aspects of bilingualism and BFLA, this paper is going to have a look at morphosyntax, the lexicon and phonology, as well as code- mixing andcommunicative competence.
Table of Contents
1. Introduction
2. Bi & Multiculturalism
2.1 Balanced Bilingualism
3. Types of simultaneous Acquisition:
Categories of Early Childhood Bilingualism
4. Linguistics
4.1 Morphosyntax
4.2 The Lexicon
4.3 Phonology
5. Codeswitching & Codemixing in bilingual children
6. Communicative Competence
7. Conclusion
8. References
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Bilingual First Language Acquisition (BFLA)?
BFLA refers to children who are exposed to and acquire two languages simultaneously from birth or very early childhood.
Do bilingual children develop slower than monolingual children?
The paper explores whether acquiring two languages impedes the developmental path. Research generally shows that while there might be slight differences in the timecourse, bilinguals reach major milestones similarly to monolinguals.
What is the difference between code-switching and code-mixing?
Code-mixing often refers to the intra-sentential use of two languages by young children, while code-switching is the more deliberate alternation between languages in a conversation.
How does BFLA affect morphosyntax development?
The study looks at how children manage different grammatical rules (like word order or inflections) from two languages simultaneously without confusing them permanently.
What is 'Balanced Bilingualism'?
Balanced bilingualism is a state where an individual has roughly equal proficiency and communicative competence in both languages.
- Quote paper
- Mirja Quix (Author), 2016, Bilingual First Language Acquisition, Munich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/428699
