Learner mistakes

Slips vs. Errors

• Which one can be considered ‘developmental’, i.e. Ss make mistakes because their learning of the item is as yet incomplete?
• Which type can Ss usually correct by themselves?

Why L2 learners make errors

• Factors in learner errors:
• Interference
• Developmental error
• Mislearning
• Fossilisation

The nature of typical mistakes

• Age groups
• Levels
• Background
• Learning styles
• ………..

Mistake categories

• Grammar
• Register
• Lexis
• Pronunciation
• Misunderstanding what they hear
• Spelling
• …….

Mistake categories

• Grammar – mixing up tenses
• Register- using formal language in informal context
• Lexis – confusion over words with similar meanings
• Pronunciation – confusing sounds of L1 & L2
• Misunderstanding what they hear – caused by difficulties in distinguishing sounds, words, word boundaries in connected speech
• Spelling – writing words which have similar sounds but are spelt differently

• Making mistakes is a natural part of language learning.
• Mistakes play an important role in indicating to teachers the stage learners are at
• Mistakes show needs for further teaching or study
• Mistakes help teachers to advise learners on what to do to improve