Sequential bilingualism

Definition

Sequential bilingualism refers to the process of learning a second language after a person has already acquired their first language. This type of bilingualism usually occurs when a child or adult begins to learn the new language in a setting where the first language is still dominant, leading to a range of cognitive and social outcomes as both languages develop over time.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Sequential bilingualism often occurs in educational settings where a child learns a second language after establishing proficiency in their first language.
2. Children who are sequential bilinguals may experience different cognitive advantages compared to simultaneous bilinguals, such as improved metalinguistic awareness.
3. The age at which a second language is learned can significantly impact the proficiency and fluency achieved by sequential bilinguals.
4. Sequential bilingualism can be influenced by factors like exposure to the second language, motivation, and the social context in which the language is learned.
5. The process can also lead to instances of language attrition, where proficiency in the first language may decline if not regularly used after learning the second language.

Review Questions

• How does sequential bilingualism differ from simultaneous bilingualism in terms of cognitive development?
  • Sequential bilingualism differs from simultaneous bilingualism primarily in the timing of language acquisition. Sequential bilinguals learn their second language after establishing a strong foundation in their first language, which can lead to different cognitive outcomes. For instance, sequential bilinguals may develop enhanced metalinguistic awareness as they compare and contrast their two languages, while simultaneous bilinguals might benefit from natural exposure to both languages from an early age.
• Discuss how the social context can impact the process of sequential bilingualism and its outcomes.
  • The social context plays a critical role in shaping the experiences of sequential bilinguals. Factors such as the availability of resources for learning the second language, peer interactions, and family support can greatly influence language acquisition. For example, if a child learns a second language in an immersive environment where that language is widely spoken, they are likely to achieve higher proficiency. Conversely, limited exposure to the second language can hinder development and lead to challenges in fluency.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of sequential bilingualism on an individual's linguistic and cognitive abilities compared to monolingual individuals.
  • The long-term effects of sequential bilingualism often include enhanced cognitive skills such as better problem-solving abilities and increased creativity compared to monolingual individuals. Sequential bilinguals tend to have a deeper understanding of linguistic structures and improved metalinguistic skills. However, these advantages can vary based on factors like age of acquisition and frequency of use of each language. While some sequential bilinguals may excel cognitively and linguistically, others might face challenges such as reduced proficiency in their first language if it is not regularly practiced.

Related terms

simultaneous bilingualism: The process of acquiring two languages at the same time, typically during early childhood, before the age of three.

code-switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages or language varieties in conversation, which is common among bilingual individuals.

language interference: The phenomenon where elements from one language affect another language in the speech or writing of a bilingual person, often leading to errors or unique linguistic forms.