Language Universals and Second‐Language Acquisition*

Abstract

This paper examines the goals and assumptions of second‐language acquisition (SLA) research, in particular relating these goals and assumptions to those of linguistics. It is argued that SLA is linguistics and that second‐language data are of import in understanding the nature of language. The main focus is language universals of which three approaches (Universal Grammar, typological universals, and processing universals) are considered. Both theoretical underpinnings and empirical evidence are brought to bear in presenting supporting and discinfiirming arguments for each of these three approaches. It is argued that we must take into account an understanding of how apparently disparate facts of language—which are universally related—are conceptually related before we can predict their effect on second‐language acquisition. It is further pointed out that because an understanding of second‐language learning necessitates an interdisciplinary approach, we must be able to specify where any single approach fits into the total picture. Finally, we present a view of the possible ways in which SLA and linguistics are theoretically related and point out that it is incumbent upon SLA researchers to make it known that the data we work with are of relevance and interest to the formulation of theories of language.