Learning Strategies

Abstract Language is a very important tool of communication, and it becomes even more effective if well mastered. Therefore, for ease of communication with people from different cultures, acquisition of a second language is paramount.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Learning Strategies – Second Language Acquisition (English) specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More This paper will discuss the process of learning a second language including the good language learner strategies, classification of the learning strategies, strategic instructions attempts and the style and strategies-based instructions combined. Generally, strategies and procedures to apply in the learning of a second language should blend well with the learners needs in order to provide the expected outcome. In addition, the learning process of a second language will be based on three classifications of learning strategies including the function- based classification, skills-based classification, and the learning and use-based classification. All these classifications provide varied but equally useful outcomes in the acquisition of a second language. The paper will conclude by highlighting the strengths of learning procedures and strategies in acquisition of English language. Introduction Second language acquisition is the process that involves learning of a second language, which is different from an individual’s first language or mother tongue. Second language acquisition usually involves learning the art of writing or speaking another language. Since learning a new language may be quite difficult, it is usually important to have a goal or purpose for studying a second language; this may include to enhance practical communication or for civilization into the culture where that language is spoken (Lamb Reinders, 2008). This paper will discuss second language acquisition in relation to English language. Language Lear ner Strategies According to DÃ ¶rnyei (2005), language-learning strategies refer to various specific means, procedures, actions, and techniques including behaviors and steps use by individuals and students to promote their own learning. On the other hand, language acquisition strategies may be viewed as the awareness and conscious styles and procedures used by individuals and students to learn a new language.Advertising Looking for term paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Generally, strategies are the methods that an individual consciously selects and uses in the process of learning the language; this is in addition to the use of materials that aid in the learning process of the language in question (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2005). Moreover, Johnson (2004) is on the opinion that the interaction with environment rather than an inherent aspect of a leaner mainly influences second language learning. The student and individual ’s selected learning methods, procedures, and strategies should always go hand in hand when combined in order to promote the learning process. Normally, many people find it difficult to master a second language if they are not subjected to the environment that demand such learning or if a second language was not complemented with learning first language early in life (Robinson, 2002, p.95). It is always important that learners use the best strategies according to their preferences. This will highly motivate the learner; indeed, the learning of English as a second language will be effective, as the learner will be able to learn by himself or herself without depending on others. This will make the learner to do more research about the language without depending on anybody, since the learner will be able to gain self-confidence, hence making learning of the language more effective and enjoyable. In addition, it is important and advantageous for the learner to use relevant strate gies, which may include proper demonstration of the said strategy and application of better methods on how to evaluate and transfer the method and the strategy to other useful related task in the learning process. Besides, for better learning of a second language, and in this case English, it is important to apply proper assessment techniques in order to assess the learner’s capability to learn; this will allow selection of the best method. Therefore, learning process can apply assessment tools like interviews and observations in order to assess the learner’s needs easily. Again, learning can use other assessment procedures, which include the use of dialogue journals and the process of thinking aloud method in assessment of the learners.Advertising We will write a custom term paper sample on Learning Strategies – Second Language Acquisition (English) specifically for you for only $16.05 $11/page Learn More Lastly, the use of self-re port surveys can also be used in some learners to enable them to assess the best strategy and style of learning English language. Classification of the Learning Strategies There are various assessment tools and procedures that can be used to enable learners know the best step and strategy to use in the acquisition of second language. To begin with, there is the use of assessment technique and strategy known as learning and use-based classification method. In this method, learners tend to select the learning strategy and style consciously (DÃ ¶rnyei, 2005). Here, the student is able to identify and select materials that are important and are more necessary, for example the identification of important and common words in an extract of a book. In addition, it may also involve making distinction about the major materials and details that need proper mastery in the learning process of the language. Furthermore, the student is able to be involved in the grouping of important facts in the text according to their categories and meaning. Lastly, the student is able to start doing his or her homework alone, including the use of various strategies of enhancing quick memory, for example, the use of mnemonics and even proper repetition to improve memory of the content learnt in class. The language use strategy involves the selection of the best method to use in the process of learning the language. This requires application of retrieval methods in order to encourage the students to recall what they learnt in classroom properly. Again, this strategy can use rehearsal means and methods to help the student to master the content of the language in his/her mind in advance. In addition, the use of communication skills and strategies can be applied in this procedure and classification in order to make the student be able to start conversation with others using the learnt language (Gotz, 2013). The other classification category is skilled-based classification method. Here, skills are required to enhance mastery of a foreign language effectively. These skills normally include listening and reading skills, as well as writing skills; this may involve skills such as the use of skimming and scanning of texts in a book or listening to the sounds of a conversation (Macaro, 2010, p.96).Advertising Looking for term paper on education? Let's see if we can help you! Get your first paper with 15% OFF Learn More Here, the use of writing and speaking skills may be employed, for example, the reviewing of various parts of a text as well as the art of keeping conversation flowing. In addition, it can apply the use of vocabulary and language translation methods in order for the student to evaluate whether he or she has proper mastery of the language (Macaro, 2010). The last classification method is the function-based classification method. This method involves cognitive, affective, and social elements of the mind in determining whether the student is using the best method or not. According to Saville-Troike (2005), the functionality approach to learning second language begins with assumption that the function of second language is communication and any linguistics will be developed with focus to communication. It is also important to focus on real situations of language use as well as competence in order to improve the student’s memory lapse, hence allowing him/her to master the language faster and with confidence (Saville-Troike, 2005). The use of social aspect will be necessary in the process of socialization and interaction with other learners who are native speakers of the English language; this will help the student to get more clarification about the learnt language. Lastly, there is the metacognitive aspect of the mind that will enable the student to have proper planning of next routines about the language and to monitor and evaluate the performance concerning the language (Robinson Ellis, 2008). Conclusion The above discussion has defined second language acquisition as the process that involves learning of a second language, which is different from an individual’s first language or mother tongue. However, this might be challenging, hence the need to use learning strategies in the acquisition of the language. In addition, language is very important in communication and in building relationship, hence it is important that language be learnt using the b est strategies and styles that should work in harmony in order to produce better and good performance in the learning process. Lastly, best strategies and assessment methods to use in the acquisition and learning of English should be adopted. Some of the strategies discussed in the paper are function-based classification methods, skills-based classification methods, and the learning and use based classification category. The discussion also details that, when these styles and strategies are applied and used appropriately, learning English as a second language become less challenging. References DÃ ¶rnyei, Z. (2005). The Psychology of the Language Learner: Individual Differences in Second Language Acquisition. New Jersey, USA: Lawrence Erlbaum Associates Publishers. Gotz, S. (2013). Fluency in Native and Nonnative English Speech. Amsterdam, Netherlands: John Benjamins Publishing Company. Johnson, M. (2004). Philosophy of Second Language Acquisition. New Haven, CT, USA: Yale Universi ty Press. Lamb, T., Reinders, H. (Eds.). (2008). Learner and Teacher Autonomy: Concepts, Realities, and Responses. Amsterdam, NLD: John Benjamin Publishing Company. Macaro, E. (Ed.). (2010). Continuum Companion to Second Language Acquisition. London, England: Continuum International Publishing. Robinson, P. (2002). Individual Differences and Instructed Language Learning. Philadelphia, Netherlands: John Benjamins. Robinson, P., and Ellis, N. (Eds.) (2008). Handbook of cognitive linguistics and second language acquisition. New York, USA: Routledge. Saville-Troike, M. (2005). Introducing second language acquisition. Cambridge, England: Cambridge University Press. This term paper on Learning Strategies – Second Language Acquisition (English) was written and submitted by user Uriah R. to help you with your own studies. You are free to use it for research and reference purposes in order to write your own paper; however, you must cite it accordingly. You can donate your paper here.

How to Get Into Yale 4 Expert Admissions Tips

How to Get Into Yale 4 Expert Admissions Tips SAT / ACT Prep Online Guides and Tips Yale is one of the most competitive schools on the planet to get into. If you’re wondering how to make your application stand out from the crowd, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll go over everything you need to know about how to get into Yale, including how hard it really is to get into Yale, what Yale is looking for in its students, what test scores and grades you need, and how to ace your Yale application essays. How Hard Is It to Get Into Yale? Yale is extremely selective - it accepts less than 7% of applicants every year. That means that only seven out of every 100 students get into Yale. In order to be competitive as an applicant, you’ll need to have near perfect grades, excellent test scores, and standout essays. What Is Yale Looking for in Its Students? Yale wrote an entire essay on what it looks for in its students. While the post doesn’t go into many specifics, it does offer some helpful nuggets of wisdom about what the admissions committee considers when evaluating applications: Academic ability: Yale wants its students to be top-of-the-line academically. Yale puts a lot of weight into your high school transcript, so you’ll need to achieve great grades consistently. Your high school teachers will also speak to your academic ability - your letters of recommendation should show that you’re hardworking and academically curious. Who you are outside of school: You’re required to write many different essays for Yale. Use your essays as an opportunity to paint a vivid portrait of yourself, one that goes beyond your academic performance. Highlight your interests and make yourself seem like a real person, not just a collection of numbers. What you’ll do with Yale’s resources: Yale wants students who will take advantage of its many resources. Your application should demonstrate that you’re ready to take on challenges and that you take grab opportunities when you see them. Yale isn’t looking for complacency - it’s looking for students who will take advantage of every moment on their campus. Amazing recommendations: While your transcripts give quantitative information about your academic ability, your recommendations give qualitative insight. Yale will rely on your teachers’ letters to really highlight who you are as a student. Teachers often write about things that a simple â€Å"A† on a line can’t convey - like your wit or sense of humor when responding to different challenges. Can You Apply to Yale Early? Yale offers both regular application and early action deadlines. The early action deadline is November 1 and you’ll hear about your acceptance on December 15. Yale’s early action program is a single choice early action program, which means that you can only apply to one school (Yale) but your acceptance isn’t binding. Statistically, you do have a slightly higher chance of getting into Yale early action than at the regular decision deadline, but the difference is not that significant. If Yale isn’t your first choice, we wouldn’t recommend applying there early, since you won’t be able to apply early anywhere else. Yale Application Deadlines and Requirements You can apply to Yale using either the Common or Coalition application. You’ll need to take write at least two essays, plus the short answer questions, regardless of which application you apply with. The number of essays you write depends on whether you’re applying with the Common Application or the Coalition Application. You’ll also need to submit three letters of recommendation. Yale requires that you send either SAT or ACT scores, with the writing component. You do not have to have completed any specific coursework in high school in order to apply. Here’s a full list of requirements: EITHER, the Coalition Application with Yale-Specific Questions, OR The Common Application with Yale-Specific Questions, OR The QuestBridge National College Match Application $80 Application Fee or Fee Waiver Two Teacher Recommendations One Counselor Recommendation School Report (including Transcript) Standardized Test Results Mid-Year Report (due when first semester/term senior grades are available at your school) Early action applications are due on November 1, regular admissions on January 1. What GPA Do I Need to Get Into Yale? You need to be at the top of your class, GPA-wise, to be accepted into Yale. The average GPA of admitted applicants to Yale is 4.19. That means you need basically straight A’s in order to even be competitive with other applicants. You’ll need to take AP or IB classes as well, both to boost your GPA and to show that you’re capable of handling college-level coursework with ease. What Test Scores Do I Need to Get Into Yale? It should come as no surprise, but you need extremely high test scores to be considered seriously as a Yale applicant. The average SAT composite score of admitted applicants at Yale is 1540. That breaks down to a 770 on the math section and 770 for the reading/writing score. In other words, you’ll need a basically perfect score to be considered. Yale requires you to send in all of your SAT scores, but the committee is able to look at a student's highest officially reported score on each section of the SAT. If you don’t have a 1540+ on the SAT yet, you need to seriously reconsider taking the test to get as close to that score as possible. Make a plan, commit to studying, and work hard. The average ACT score of admitted applicants at Yale is 33 - slightly less competitive than the average SAT scores. That being said, 33 is still high and if you have lower than a 31 on the ACT, you should consider retaking the exam. Yale Application Essays Yale requires all of its applicants to answer some combination of three specific essay questions. If you’re applying to the engineering school, you’ll have to answer an additional prompt. Let’s take a look at the three prompts. Then, we’ll talk about who needs to answer them. Think about an idea or topic that has been intellectually exciting for you. Why are you drawn to it? Reflect on your engagement with a community to which you belong. How do you feel you have contributed to this community? Yale students, faculty, and alumni engage issues of local, national, and international importance. Discuss an issue that is significant to you and how your college experience might help you address it. If you’re applying with the Common Application, you’ll choose two of those prompts and answer them in 250 words or fewer. If you’re applying with the Coalition Application, you’ll answer one prompt in 300 words or fewer. You’ll also include an audio, video, image, or document file that you have created that is meaningful to you and related in some way to your essay. You’ll write one sentence to show how this relates to your essay. Students applying to Yale’s engineering program must also submit the engineering essay as part of their application. Here’s the Yale engineering essay prompt: If you selected one of the engineering majors, please tell us more about what has led you to an interest in this field of study, what experiences (if any) you have had in engineering, and what it is about Yale’s engineering program that appeals to you. Please respond in 300 words or fewer. All applicants will complete six short answer questions regardless of which application you’re using. The six short answer questions for the Yale essays range in word limit from 35 words to 300 words. These essays are specific to the Yale application - you won’t find them on any other college or university’s application. Although they are short, the Yale supplement essays are just as important as the longer essays. If you want to learn more about how to answer the Yale essays and short answer questions, check out our in-depth article on the subject. Tips for Getting Into Yale It’s hard to get into Yale, but not impossible. You need to put serious work into your application to be considered. Here are some tips you can follow as you’re working on your Yale application. #1: Work Hard at Getting Great Grades You need great grades to be accepted at Yale. If you’re still in your freshman, sophomore, or junior year of high school, plan to take some advanced classes to up your GPA. You’ll need to be disciplined and work hard to compete with the other applicants. #2: Ace Your Standardized Tests You need high standardized test scores in order to be admitted to Yale. You should plan to take the SAT at least three or four times. Remember, you can take the SAT up to six times before the admissions committee starts to wonder why you keep taking the test. If you’re taking the Yale, you should study for and take the test as many times as necessary to meet (or beat) the average ACT score of Yale admitted applicants. #3: Write Standout Essays You have plenty of opportunities to flesh out your personality with your essays. You should put equal weight on all of the short answer questions, even the ones with a 35 word limit. If you're worried that one of your essays isn't strong enough, seek out a second opinion. #4: Secure Awesome Recommendations Yale puts a lot of emphasis on the recommendations you get from teachers - make sure you get good ones! Pick teachers who really know you - ones that you've worked with closely and have seen your best work. You want letters from teachers who can speak to your strengths beyond academic ability. Recap: How to Get Into Yale Getting into Yale is extremely difficult, but it's not impossible! Your application will need to be incredibly polished in order to stand a chance. Make sure your academic record is near perfect, your recommendations stellar, and your essays engaging, and you'll be competitive with the other applicants. What’s Next? Worried about how to write an amazing college essay?Readour step-by-step guide on how to write a college essayand take a look at our analysis of 100+ real college essaysto get a feel for what colleges want- and don't want- to read in an application. If you're getting ready to apply to college,it's time to learn what colleges expect from you. This article will help you better target your application to suit what each school you apply to is looking for. If you're planning to take the SAT or ACT as part of your application, try out some of our famous test prep guides, like"How to Get a Perfect Score on the SAT"and"15 Key ACT Test Day Tips." Want to get into Yale or your personal top choice college? We can help. PrepScholar Admissions is the world's best admissions consulting service. We combine world-class admissions counselors with our data-driven, proprietary admissions strategies. We've overseen thousands of students get into their top choice schools, from state colleges to the Ivy League. Learn more about PrepScholar Admissions to maximize your chance of getting in.

Developing states Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Developing states - Essay Example As pointed out, some states within world nations are generally termed as ‘developing’ because those states show development in certain areas, but certain problems hinder those states from attaining development. For instance, less industrialization is a serious problem faced by the developing states in Asia and Latin America. Comparing with poor states/nations, the standard of living in the developing states is comparatively high. But this does not prove that the standard of living in the developing states is similar to that of the developed nations in Europe and America. On the other side, most of the developing states lack economic independence. â€Å"These nations have often been handicapped by poor infrastructure, inadequate education, rampant corruption, and high trade barriers.†1 So, one can see that income disparity is a common problem faced by developing states. Still, developing states share certain societal, financial and political characteristics. For instance, most of the developing states were under colonial rule. This resulted in the amalgamation of certain colonial elements with social structure of these states. For instance, one can easily identify the influence of European cultural characteristics in the developing states in Asia and Africa. Besides, almost all the developing states face the problem of unequal distribution of wealth. To be specific, the inefficient political systems within these states allow the elite class to enjoy all the economic benefits. So, one can see that developing states share certain common characteristics, apart from poor and developed states. Summing, the developing states show progress, but the same is insufficient to term these states as developed. In addition, lack of effective political system is an important problem faced by developing states. One can see that the efficiency of political system can lead a nation towards rapid economic development. Still, the political systems within