Faculty Publications

An Examination Of L1 And L2 Gesture Use: What Role Does Proficiency Play?

Document Type

Article

Journal/Book/Conference Title

Modern Language Journal

Volume

93

Issue

2

First Page

195

Last Page

208

Abstract

This study examines possible connections between second language competency and frequency and type of gesture use (illustrators, compensatory illustrators, adaptors, emblems, regulators, and affect displays). To this end, 75 students enrolled in beginning, intermediate, and advanced college-level Spanish courses were videotaped while conversing in dyads, first in Spanish and then in English. ANOVA results based on observer responses to the videotape indicated that advanced learners used significantly more speech-related, meaning-enhancing gestures than did beginning and intermediate students and that participants used significantly more gestures overall in their native English than they did in the target language (Spanish). Pedagogical implications address the creation of supportive environments, training in strategies, and the use of authentic classroom activities that include the visual modality. © 2009 by The Modern Language Journal.

Department

Department of English Language and Literature

Original Publication Date

5-14-2009

DOI of published version

10.1111/j.1540-4781.2009.00856.x

Link to Full Text

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