Cross-Linguistic Lacunarity: Integration of Theoretical Linguo-Cultural Knowledge and L2 & C2 Competence Development

Abstract

Learning a foreign language involves not only being faced with another language, but also with a different culture. Therefore, adopting a linguo-cultural perspective is a prerequisite to proper developing a learner’s competence foreign language (L2) and foreign culture (C2). The L2 and C2 aspects not represented in one’s own language (L1) and one’s own culture (C1) create the sphere of lacunarity (linguistic and cultural gaps) in L2 learners, observed on various planes, e.g. in lexis, syntax, genres, gestures etc. From a teaching perspective, the introduction of the notion of lacunae increases the learner’s linguo-cultural awareness, preparing the student to expect lacunae in L2 and C2 and to be conscious of gaps in L1 and C1 from the perspective of L2 and C2 users. The presentation of the notion of lacunarity broadens learners’ theoretical knowledge with vital practical implications since it enables students to develop strategies how to deal with lacunae.

Keywords

• Foreign language teaching/learning
• Language competence
• Intercultural competence
• Lacunarity
• Metalinguistic awareness