How Age Factor Influences Second Language Acquisition And Its Implications In Second Language Learning And Teaching

In second language acquisition (SLA), the effect of age factors has always been the study focus of linguists and perhaps one of the most controversial issues. Some scholars' opinion is that the younger the better to begin studying a second language (L2). Some researchers believe that adult learners have more powerful motivation and competence.Based on the Brain Plasticity Theory and the Critical Period Hypothesis, the purpose is to, through the comparative study, prove such a hypothesis that the younger the learner who begins to learn an L2, the greater the probability that he or she will achieve a native-like command of it. Subjects are 168 Chinese learners who begin learning English at different ages. An analysis of the results of comprehensive scores and a collection of the data in the questionnaire show that the results obtained turn out to be consistent with the hypothesis.The purpose of this study is not only to argue which is better, younger or elder; it is an attempt, through investigation and study, to provide some insights into the existing issues concerning the English language education system in China, particularly the children L2 education and college English education.