TESOL 2025 – 400 Free Practice Questions to Pass the Exam

Language transfer refers specifically to the influence that a learner's native language has on their acquisition of a second language. This phenomenon can manifest in various ways, such as when the grammatical structures, vocabulary, or pronunciation patterns from the first language carry over to the second language. For example, if a Spanish speaker tries to learn English, they might apply Spanish syntax or vocabulary rules to English, which could result in errors common among bilingual learners.

This influence can be both positive and negative. Positive transfer occurs when similarities between the two languages facilitate learning, making it easier to grasp new concepts. Conversely, negative transfer happens when differences lead to misunderstandings or errors, as the learner relies on their native language's rules instead of adapting to those of the new language.

Understanding language transfer is crucial for educators as it helps them anticipate potential challenges learners may face and develop strategies to address these challenges effectively.