Is there a critical period for second language learning?
The critical period hypothesis is derived from studies which showed that there were biological constraints to first language acquisition. In particular, Eric Lenneberg (1967) speculated that because the critical period ended at puberty for first language acquisition, the same probably obtained for second language learning. Although this account appeals to many people’s intuitions and personal experiences, there is no empirical evidence to show that there is a sharp drop in language learning ability after puberty. The research evidence shows that there is no sharp or ‘critical’ drop-off point, instead language learning ability declines gradually with age, as shown by correlation studies. Furthermore, there is no evidence that there is a qualitative difference in the way children and adults learn a second language, that is, they make similar kinds of errors, and proceed along similar paths of development. The critical period hypothesis also assumes a minimal role for environmental factor
