HOW DO WE LEARN ANOTHER LANGUAGE?

Language is a system of arbitrary vocal symbols used by a social group. It may be either spoken or written. Every human being uses a language to communicate to other members of the society (s)he is a part of. While we acquire our mother tongues (L1), we learn the other language(s). Linguists talk of several approaches to language learning process, more prominent approaches being grammar-translation, direct, audio-lingual and contrastive analysis. Similarly, four of the major skills such as listening, speaking, reading and writing (LSRW) are also involved in language learning process. Our learning an additional language enriches and helps us build a communication rapport with a larger society or social group.