Learnability and the Lexicon
Theories and second language acquisition research
The implications for first and second language acquisition are discussed. In particular, it is suggested that different parametric settings may lead to a learnability problem if adult learners do not retain access to sensitivity to underlying semantic organization and morphological differences between languages provided by Universal Grammar.
An experiment with Chinese-speaking learners of English is presented which shows that learners initially transfer L1 semantic organization to the L2, but are able to retreat from overgeneralisations and achieve native-like grammars in this area.
Suggestions for further research in this rapidly developing area of theory and acquisition research are also made.
Table of Contents
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Acknowledgments | p. xiii
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1. Linguistic Theory, Language Acquisition, and the lexicon | p. 1
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2. Generative approaches to semantic-syntax correspondences | p. 32
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3. Semantic structure: crosslinguistic patterns and constraints | p. 76
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4. Acquiring Semantic-Syntax Correspondences | p. 128
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5. Testing knowledge of semantic-syntax correspondences in a second language | p. 169
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6. Analysis and discussion | p. 205
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7. Epilogue | p. 230
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Appendix I: English Locative Verbs | p. 253
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Appendix II: Chinese Locative Verbs and Arguments Structures | p. 255
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Appendix III: Test of Verb Meanings | p. 259
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Appendix IV: Production task | p. 261
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Appendix V: Grammaticality Judgement Task | p. 262
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Index | p. 267
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