About this workshop

Introduction

In the time since S. P. Corder’s article, “The Significance of Learners’ Errors,” was published, we have come to understand that errors are not necessarily indications that students have learned something incorrectly, but rather evidence regarding the current state of the learners’ (constantly changing) internal language system, or interlanguage (Selinker, 1972).

In this workshop we will discuss what errors indicate in terms of language development and learning. We will consider how this evidence about the state of the learner’s interlanguage can be assessed and used in instruction.

Time commitment

1 hour

Before you start

Download the pre-workshop handout, and consider the following questions:
1) Why were Corder’s suggestions and ideas considered groundbreaking at the time?
2) How would you define error? Mistake?
3) Write down a few examples from your classes or personal experiences with errors while teaching or learning a second language that you can refer to and analyze throughout the workshop. What do you have questions about?

Workshop videos

Documents

All readings referenced are listed in the handouts below.
Activities
Handout
Significance of Learner’s Errors Powerpoint

Quizzes