1. Consider your own or others’ successes and failures with learning a
new language. What role did motivation play, and what was the
nature of this motivation? How can motivation and investment change
over time?
2. Explore the Centre for Languages, Linguistics & Area Studies
database of 700 reasons to study a foreign language (
www.idiomas.idph.com.br/textos/700_reasons.pdf ). Choose two or
three reasons to discuss with your group.
3. While there may not be a critical period for language learning, there
are advantageous periods. What are some advantages for younger
learners? What are some advantages for older learners?
