Braiding the Ropes: Adding Second or Additional Language Acquisition to Reading and Writing Metaphors

Abstract

Drawing on second language acquisition theories and existing visuals, this article proposes a new educational metaphor, Lane’s L2+ Acquisition Rope, to encompass the complexities of second or additional language learning. This metaphor integrates five major strands—external factors, social factors, affective factors, innate factors, and internal factors—to provide a comprehensive framework for understanding proficient second language acquisition. Implications of this visual highlight the importance of incorporating socio-cultural, neurological, and affective dimensions into educational metaphors to support diverse learners effectively. Lane’s L2+ Acquisition Rope offers a promising avenue for educators to enhance instructional practices and promote equitable learning outcomes for English Language Learners and other student subgroups.

Keywords

• language acquisition
• English Language Learner (ELL)
• multilingual learners
• emergent bilinguals
• language proficiency
• Scarborough’s Reading Rope