How Second Languages are Learned An Introduction

The roles that Universal Grammar (UG), a speaker’s first language (L1) and input play in the learning of second language (L2) phrasal and sentential meaning are considered. UG appears to guide L2 learners in identifying the meaning of constructions involving quantifier scope and anaphor interpretation. Input is necessary for L2 learners to acquire language-specific properties like the expression of ‘manner of motion along a path’ and the aspectual interpretation of verb forms. But L1 influence can be found in the early development of knowledge of input-derived meanings.