ABSTRACT
Dominant theories in second language learning rely on the linguistic theory of Universal Grammar. In this chapter, we question a basic assumption in the theoretical construct underlying Universal Grammar, namely the notion of an inherent argument structure as the sole determiner of the syntax of the clause. Drawing on natural and experimental work with the Maasai external possession (EP) construction, we argue that because linguistic theories that assume that syntax is solely determined by argument structure cannot account for EP constructions, we must be careful when employing such theories as the starting point for theories of second language acquisition. Our experimental results underscore the need to provide a highly contextualized and constructionally varied linguistic input during foreign language teaching.
