The Monitor Model by Stephen Krashen:
A Powerful Tool for Learning English
The acquisition gives you fluency in the language. Learning gives you accuracy.
-Stephen krashen
In the past, traveling and exploring the world was a privilege reserved for a few brave and adventurous individuals. These men embarked on long and perilous journeys, risking their lives to discover incredible and exotic corners. However, communication always posed a primary challenge when interacting with the new cultures they encountered along the way. The need for translation was crucial, and lingua francas like Latin or Greek were indispensable for achieving understanding. Nevertheless, communication remained complicated and often confusing.
Within this framework, translators played a vital role in commercial processes and cultural exchanges among diverse societies. Their ability to translate ideas and concepts from one language to another greatly facilitated trade and mutual understanding among people from different cultures. Moreover, those translators who mastered more than two languages gained even greater power, as they could establish direct connections and understandings between cultures that would otherwise be separated by deeper linguistic and cultural barriers. This not only boosted commercial exchange but also fostered understanding and respect among the various societies of the ancient world.
Today, the world has experienced significant advances that have transformed it into an accessible place for traveling and interacting with diverse cultures. Nowadays, language no longer represents an insurmountable obstacle; anyone can learn to speak more than one language and communicate effectively with individuals from different countries. What was once considered unattainable, modernity has made possible through social networks. Now, moving to another country, working there, exploring its culture, and learning its customs is no longer a distant dream. Additionally, with available resources like apps and online courses, there’s no need to rely on a translator; anyone can equip themselves to learn or master a new language.
For many, speaking English is part of their daily lives. However, some still see the language as a barrier that has prevented them from achieving their personal or professional dreams. The process of learning a new language like English can seem overwhelming to many. However, there are theories and models that have revolutionized how we understand this process, and one of the most influential is the Monitor Model developed by linguist Stephen Krashen. In this blog, we will explain the model’s five key hypotheses and how they can be used as effective tools for learning English.
The Monitor Model by Stephen Krashen is based on five fundamental hypotheses that explain how the language acquisition process occurs. These hypotheses are:
- Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis
Krashen’s first hypothesis distinguishes between language acquisition and learning. Acquisition refers to the natural and subconscious process of absorbing a language through exposure and interaction, while learning focuses on conscious knowledge of grammar rules and vocabulary. In the context of learning English, this means that regular exposure to the language through activities like listening to music, watching movies, and conversing with native speakers is crucial for effective language acquisition.
- Affective Filter Hypothesis
Krashen’s second hypothesis highlights the importance of affective factors in the learning process. Anxiety, motivation, and attitude toward language learning can act as filters that affect students’ ability to acquire English. Therefore, creating a positive, motivating, and pressure-free learning environment can be key to maximizing the effectiveness of English language learning.
- Natural Order Hypothesis
Krashen’s third hypothesis suggests that there is a natural order in the acquisition of English grammatical structures. This means that certain grammatical structures and vocabulary are acquired before others, following a predictable sequence based on frequency and utility in everyday use. By understanding this natural order, students can focus their efforts on learning the most basic and common structures first.
- Comprehensible Input Hypothesis
Krashen’s fourth hypothesis emphasizes the importance of comprehensible input in the English language learning process. Input, i.e., exposure to the language through conversations, readings, and activities, should be both understandable and challenging. This means that students should understand most of the message but also face a certain level of difficulty to stimulate learning.
- Monitor Hypothesis
Finally, Krashen’s fifth hypothesis speaks to the role of the monitor in English language learning. The monitor is the conscious system that students use to review and correct their language production. While useful for formal learning activities and error correction, Krashen suggests that its use in spontaneous communication should be limited, as it can interfere with fluency and naturalness in language.
Stephen Krashen’s Monitor Model offers a valuable perspective for learning English by focusing on the importance of comprehensible exposure, affective environment, natural order of acquisition, and the balance between acquisition and learning. By integrating these hypotheses into our learning practices, we can optimize our experience and progress in mastering the English language.
It is crucial to highlight the importance of immersion in the English language through active participation in casual conversations in real environments. By putting into practice what has been learned in everyday situations, students significantly reinforce their confidence and language skills.
An effective teaching method that emphasizes this immersion and real-life practice is Start Speaking Today. With this approach, highly trained native teachers guide students through authentic conversations and interactive activities that allow them to apply what they have learned practically and effectively. Moreover, this method focuses on developing oral communication skills, helping students preserve and improve their language skills over time.
Don’t let English be an obstacle in your life. Approach Start Speaking Today and give yourself the opportunity to achieve fluent and lasting mastery of the language, enabling you to communicate with confidence and success in any context and situation.
WhatsApp +52 1 56 2821 6106 contacto@startspeakingtoday.com.mx
