Interlanguage theory is one of many theories which try to explain how second language in this context English is learnt and acquired by different learners. Interlanguage is the interim language a learner develops in the process of learning a second language and approximating toward target language.

1. INTERLANGUAGE AND
INTERLANGUAGE
THEORY
MA-ELT

2. Early Interlanguage Studies
 The term was coined by Selinker.
 Interim grammar developed by SLL on the way
to TL.
 Also known as “approximative system” and
“transitional competence”
 A sort of “limbo condition” in language learning

3. Two important aspects of
Inetrlanguage
 The learner’s system at a single point in time
 Development of learners over time
Not the first language, not the target language,
an interim and intermediate language system
individually developed by the learners.
Deployment of various internal strategies to
understand input and control own output

4. Three models of Interlanguage
 Interlanguage and learning strategies (Selinker
1972)
 Interlangauge as rule governed behavior
(Adjemian 1976)
 Interlanguage as a set of styles (Tarone 1979)

5. Selinker Model-Cognitive
Emphasis
 Language transfer- transfer from the first
language
 Transfer of training – received from the training
process of L2
 Strategies of L2 learning – approach and
materials
 Strategies of L2 communication- specific way
of learning
 Overgeneralization of TL linguistic materials-
rule and semantic features

6. Fossilization ?
 Ceases to elaborate the interlanguage despite
of exposure, new data or training
Causes-
Language transfer and strategies of
communication (five cognitive processes
discussed in the previous slide)

7. Adjemian Model
 Linguistically as rule governed behavior like
any other natural language
 Transitional competence and psychological
mechanism at play
 Systematicity and permeability
 Always in a flux “invaded” by L1 or learners
stretch, distort or overgeneralize the rule of L2
to produce intended meaning.

8. Third Approach- Tarone
Interlanguage as a set of styles
 Context and elicitation task
 A sociolinguistic point of view
 Interlanguage is not a single system but a set
of styles used in different contexts

9. Three basic models of IL