Critical period constraints in the second language acquisition of syntax : the case of EFL Arabic learners of English

Abstract EN

Age is believed to be a determining factor in achieving native-like competence in second language (L2) acquisition.

The Critical Period Hypothesis (Lenneberg, 1967) states that native competence cannot be attained after puberty.

Previous research has reached diverse conclusions regarding the ability of L2 learners to attain the level of native speakers.

This study addresses whether native-like competence is attainable by English as a Foreign Language (EFL) learners who began learning English beyond the critical period.

Data were gathered from 32 male EFL learners in Saudi Arabia whose first language was Arabic, alongside six English-speaking controls.

The Arabic speakers were fourth-year students specialising in English at a Saudi university.

Two tests were administered: a) a grammaticality judgement test; and b) an Oxford Quick Placement Test of proficiency.

The participants were categorised into four proficiency levels (elementary, lower intermediate, upper intermediate and advanced).

The findings revealed that the participants in the advanced group performed similarly to the native English speakers; therefore, EFL learners can achieve native-like competence.