The University of Queensland

The measurement of primary traits in second language oral proficiency in second language acquisition research (2005–2008)

Abstract:

Reaching advanced levels of second language (L2) oral proficiency is a challenge for many adult learners. This project examines how four primary second language traits (i.e. syntactic complexity, lexical range, accuracy and fluency) each contribute to advanced L2 proficiency. An in-depth analysis of 300 speech samples produced by learners of English, Japanese and Spanish will be compared with results taken from independent proficiency measures. Outcomes from this cross-linguistic study will provide insights into the characteristics of advanced L2 oral proficiency. The study will also produce methodological refinements in the measuement of these four primary language traits.

Grant type:

ARC Discovery Projects

Researchers:

• 

  Dr Noriko Iwashita

  Associate Professor
  

  School of Languages and Cultures

  Faculty of Humanities, Arts and Social Sciences

Funded by:

Australian Research Council