Readings and Response Questions

http://ecap.crc.uiuc.edu/pubs.html
Clark, B. First- and second-language acquisition in early childhood.

What are some of the benefits of acquiring a second language? Are there any negatives associated with second language acquisition in children?

http://www.ncela.gwu.edu/ncbepubs/classics/focus/02aage.htm
Collier, V.(1987) The effect on age on acquisition of a second language for school.

http://www.stanford.edu/~hakuta/Docs/CriticalPeriod.PDF
Hakuta disputes critical age hypothesis

What do these articles say about the ‘critical period’ for second language acquisition? From your own experience learning a second language and from other personal experiences what do you think? Is there a critical age for second language acquisition?