Embedded aspect in L2 acquisition: Evidence from L1-Russian learners of Greek

Authors

  • Sviatlana Karpava Department of English Studies, University of Cyprus, Cyprus Author
  • Kleanthes K. Grohmann Department of English Studies, University of Cyprus, Cyprus Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36505/ExLing-2010/03/0021/000141

Keywords:

acquisition, cross-linguistic interference, embedded aspect, imperfective, perfective

Abstract

This work investigates first-language (L1) influence on second-language (L2) acquisition of embedded aspect, comparing participants with homogeneous L1 background (Russian) in Greece (L2 Standard Modern Greek) and Cyprus (L2 Cypriot Greek), where verb complementation takes a finite form instead of an infinitival as in Russian. The focus of the experimental study is on those embedded sentential environments which allow only perfective aspect in Greek but either perfective or imperfective in Russian. The findings are taken to support the Full Transfer/Full Access Hypothesis, according to which aspect is part of Universal Grammar; L2 learners can reach native-like attainment due to access to UG, while at the initial stage of L2 acquisition transfer from L1 into L2 takes place.

References

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Schwartz, B.D., & Sprouse, R. 1994. Word order and nominative case in nonnative language acquisition: A longitudinal study of (L1 Turkish) German interlanguage. In: Hoekstra, T., & Schwartz, B.D. (eds.), Language Acquisition Studies in Generative Grammar, 317-368. Amsterdam: John Benjamins.

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Published

01-01-2010

How to Cite

Embedded aspect in L2 acquisition: Evidence from L1-Russian learners of Greek. (2010). Linguistic Proceedings Series, 3(1), 81-84. https://doi.org/10.36505/ExLing-2010/03/0021/000141

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