ABSTRACT
This chapter assesses the acquisition and development of language in general, and the relevance of particular aspects of this for second language learning. It considers features of intellectual development particular to children of junior school age. Language acquisition is therefore, a drawing together of aspects from three main areas: the logical demands of the learning task; some psychological processes; and some developmental factors. Other factors such as physical, emotional and social development must play a part in this as in any learning. Yet, in focusing in turn on the particular areas selected, it will be more possible to relate children's stage of learning readiness to their learning of French. The chapter discusses aim and purpose of learning and teaching second languages. Writers on acquisition and development of first languages reveal a greater awareness of the complexity of the problem.
