Editing Second-language acquisition (section)

{{Short description|Process of learning a second language}}
{{About|natural acquisition of a second language|classroom learning|Language education}}
{{Technical|date=May 2024}}
{{Linguistics|Topics}}

'''Second-language acquisition''' ('''SLA'''), sometimes called '''second-language learning'''—otherwise referred to as '''L2''' ('''language 2''') '''acquisition''', is the process of learning a language other than one's native language (L1). SLA research examines how learners develop their knowledge of [[second language]], focusing on concepts like ''[[interlanguage]]'', a transitional linguistic system with its own rules that evolves as learners acquire the target language. 

SLA research spans cognitive, social, and linguistic perspectives. Cognitive approaches investigate memory and attention processes; sociocultural theories emphasize the role of social interaction and immersion; and linguistic studies examine the innate and learned aspects of language. Individual factors like age, [[motivation]], and [[personality]] also influence SLA, as seen in discussions on the [[critical period hypothesis]] and learning strategies. In addition to acquisition, SLA explores language loss, or [[second-language attrition]], and the impact of formal instruction on learning outcomes.