Lexical Phrases: An Essential Brain-Adaptive Requisite for Second Language Acquisition

Abstract

In the incessant attempts to overcome second language (L2) acquisition difficulties and to improve second language proficiency, most of the proposed methodological approaches which address this issue place high value on individual vocabulary and grammar of a second language and fall short of integrating lexical phrases/multi-unit expressions into the teaching approaches. This, if does not exacerbate acquisition difficulties, does not by any means improve it. On this view, the ubiquitous interest in lexical phrases gave rise to their investigation in language acquisition. This paper reviews the importance of lexical phrases in language acquisition by providing further insight into their peripheral role in first language and second language acquisition alike. Also, Evidence from neurolinguistic and psycholinguistic studies are provided to account for lexical phrases representation and brain-adaptability. Further, this paper suggests the implementation of lexical phrases, in general, and the Lexical Approach, in particular, in second language acquisition. Finally, further pedagogical implications as well as self-paced ones are proposed.

The Effect of a Neuroeducation Program on L2 Automatization and Acquisition for Intermediate Young Adult Learners

“…Analyses revealed a demonstrably positive impact on learner performance, manifesting in both the Lexical-Phrases production test, where post-test scores exceeded pre-test scores signi cantly, and the writing assessments, showcasing increased frequency and accuracy of lexical phrase utilization compared to pre-program compositions. These ndings resonate with existing research for brain adaptability of lexical phrases (Yusuf, 2020) and with the endeavors exploring effective methodologies for L2 lexical phrase acquisition, such as Lin's (2022) CALL tool employing formulaic sequence generation based on YouTube content, Puimège and Peters' (2020) audiovisual documentary approach fostering incidental learning of formulaic sequences, and Kim's (2020) animated movie-based program incorporating explicit and implicit lexical phrase activities. The consistent positive outcomes across diverse pedagogical approaches, alongside the compelling data from the current study, not only solidify the e cacy of LIRRA-NP in promoting L2 lexical phrase acquisition but also underscore the pivotal role such acquisition plays in overall L2 development.…”