The Critical-Period Hypothesis and its Implications from Western Scholars

Abstract

The Critical Period Hypothesis is still controversial recently, so it cannot be said to be absolutely confirmed to be false. It is more important to realize the significance of application. Although the exact properties of this phenomenon remain unclear and the literature is divided, more and more Chinese mothers choose to teach English or other languages as a second language to their children from a very early age (0-3 years old). This paper discusses whether these attempts can help children achieve the future goals set by their parents through literature review. The results attempt to support the existence of the Critical Period Hypothesis, because from the end of adolescence, the ability to learn grammar declines sharply, and the ability to reach native-like proficiency depends largely on the age at which learning begins.