Principles of form-focused tasks for Xhosa second language at tertiary level

Abstract

This study explores the principles of form-focused tasks for Xhosa second language at tertiary level. The latest developments in second language acquisition and in pedagogy are reviewed. The study field of second language acquisition developed from within the confines of applied linguistics as the result of a search for more effective language teaching methodology. While acknowledging the fact that Universal Grammar plays a role in the acquisition of both a first and a second language, there is general agreement that there is a difference between the two processes. A prominent issue in current second language acquisition research is the degree of access that a learner has to Universal Grammar in the acquisition of a second language. Some salient features of Universal Grammar such as principles and parameter settings, markedness, transfer and fossilization are explored in this study. Different syllabus types are reviewed. Task-based syllabus types are described as a suitable syllabus type for the current paradigm. Input enhancement in terms of a focus on form is suggested as a way to achieve effective second language learning and teaching. Ways to adapt study materials according to the requirements of a task-based approach are explored.