Example Of Contrastive Analysis Essay

The Contrastive Analysis Hypothesis claims that errors in the second language can be predicted by identifying the differences between the first and the second language forms and patterns. Systematic L1 effects on L2 learning have been studied by assuming that L2 linguistic patterns can be largely predicted on the basis of L1 characteristics, which transfer to L2 either positively or negatively (Gass & Selinker, 2001). In terms of language transfer, Gass and Selinker (1992) stated that comparative studies between the first and the second languages are an important preliminary step to understanding language transfer. This comparison, they add, often guides us to understanding hypotheses related to language transfer phenomena.

The other theoretical model for contrastive analysis was proposed by Krzeszowski (1976 & 1979) under the title "Contrastive Generative Grammar." In this model L1 and L2 structures are generated from some common base, and are compared and contrasted during the process of generation. According to Krzeszowski, traditional contrastive analysis are conducted along the horizontal dimensions involved in comparing an element or a class of elements in L1 with an equivalent element or class of elements in L2 and/or vice versa.

Universal Grammar has paid considerable attention to certain areas where L1 transfer may operate. Within the UG framework, many researchers have not concentrated primarily on transfer, but have recognized its importance in second language acquisition (Odlin, 2003). White (1992) differentiates between the current UG-based theories of the phenomenon of transfer and the earlier theories, particularly those based on the Contrastive Analysis framework. Accordingly, he notes four ways in which UG relates to the phenomenon of