Crosslinguistic Influence during Second Language Acquisition: The Reasons behind

Abstract

This paper deals with the reasons behind Crosslinguistic Influence (CLI) during the acquisition of an L2, namely English. Based on theoretical concepts and empirical data, this work briefly (a) reviews what is currently known about CLI and (b) outlines some of the factors triggering such a phenomenon. While some scholars explain CLI according to internal (linguistic/cognitive) factors, others consider external (cultural/environmental) aspects as a real insight into Second Language Acquisition. This analysis aims at (a) comprehending CLI during English language acquisition, (b) understanding Algerian learners of English by investigating a process they go through and (c) delimiting the causes of CLI. The latter is investigated from different perspectives in order to target what may enhance or delay some linguistic deviations in English production and comprehension.