The Prerequisites for CPH Theory

There is a list of the prerequisites for CPH to become a theory; these characteristics must be taken into consideration in the investigation about the cogency of CPH.

1. Once the individual development phase passes the critical period, the resulting learning achievement almost cannot show the same effectiveness of learning as that before the critical period.

2. In support of the hypothesis on the critical period, there must be a clear and fixed critical period in the course of individual development.

3. There are four main components of language (phonology, semantics, grammar, pragmatics). The brain at different developmental phases is sensitive to different language components. Therefore, the application of the concept that the critical period impacts the learning of a second language should consider the language components involved.

4. The behavior before and after the critical period should display a decedent step function pattern of change.

5. If CPH exists in the learning of a second language, as long as the learning age is similar, there should not be any obvious differences in the result among learners from different regions in this world.

6. There is a specific point in time for the emergence of the critical period. At this point of time, as long as there is the experience of minimal exposure, one can obtain (acquire, by nature) or learn (acquisition, by learning) certain capacity.

Originally published at http://poeticmindfulness.wordpress.com on September 18, 2020.