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B. Learning
A specialized definition: “Learning is a relatively permanent change in a behavioral tendency and is
the result of reinforced practice” KimbleyGarmezy,1963:133
Here are some understandings of learning according to Douglas Brown in his book “Principle of Language Learning and Teaching”. They are:
1. Learning is acquisition or “getting”
2. Learning is retention of information or skill
3. Retention implies storage systems, memory, cognitive organization
4. Learning involves active, conscious focus on and acting upon events
outside or inside the organism 5.
Learning is relatively permanent but subject to forgetting 6.
Learning involves some form of practice, perhaps reinforced practice 7.
Learning is a change in behavior Based on the statement above the writer can conclude that learning is
process to get new knowledge, information, and skill. They should study and practice. Therefore, they will be easier to understand everything in
learning process.
C. Young Learner
Teaching English as a second language is completely different from teaching English
to adult.”To be able to teach children, teacher must understand
them”. Petersen and Hayden, 1961:44
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In her book entitled “Young Learner”, Sarah Philip states that the young
learners means “children from the first year of formal schooling five to eleven
years old or eleven or twelve years old of ag e”
Philips, 1993:5 While Wendy A. Scott and Lisbeth H. Ytreberg have divided children into
two main groups namely: five to seven years old and eight to ten year old children. The characteristics of five to seven year old group, among others are:
1 They understand situations more quickly that they understand the language
used. 2
Their own understanding comes through the hands, eyes, and cars. 3
They have a very short attention and concentration span. 4
They love to play and learn best when they are enjoying themselves. 5
They are enthusiastic and positive about learning. On the other hand, there are some characteristics of eight to ten year old groups:
1 They can tell the differences between fact and fiction.
2 They ask questions all the time.
3 They are able to make some decision about their own learning.
4 They have definite views about what they are like and don’t like doing.
5 They are able to work with other and learn from others.
Scott – Ytreberg, 1990:1-4
From the statements above we can conclude that young learners are learning easier about new knowledge. They just learn what they see and
what they hear. The young learner has quickly response about situation.
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Besides, the young learners are active to question about all and they also learn easier about the lesson that makes them enjoyable. As teachers who
teach young learners, we must familiar with their characteristics.
D. English for Children
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