How does age influence second language acquisition?

Younger learners often have an advantage in natural acquisition due to several factors that facilitate the language learning process. Children are generally more adept at mimicking sounds and intonation, which allows them to achieve a more native-like pronunciation. Additionally, their cognitive development during the younger years is particularly suited to absorbing new languages without the inhibition often found in adults.

Younger learners also tend to have greater access to immersive settings, such as school environments where they interact regularly in the target language. The flexibility of children’s brains during the critical periods of language development allows for more effective assimilation of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Furthermore, younger individuals are often less self-conscious, which encourages them to engage more readily in conversations and practice speaking the new language.

In contrast, older learners may face challenges such as established habits in their first language and a greater degree of anxiety or self-consciousness when using a new language. Hence, age does play a significant role in shaping the second language acquisition experience, often giving younger learners an edge in achieving fluency.