Which concept describes acquiring a second language while maintaining the first language healthfully?

Which concept describes acquiring a second language while maintaining the first language healthfully?

• A. Additive bilingualism
• B. Subtractive bilingualism
• C. Interlanguage
• D. Code-switching

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is how learning a new language can occur alongside keeping the first language strong. Additive bilingualism describes gaining a second language while maintaining and developing the first one, with supportive exposure to both languages so neither is sacrificed. This approach values the first language's skills and cultural identity while adding a new language, often leading to true bilingual fluency in both.

Subtractive bilingualism, by contrast, involves the second language taking over or replacing the first, so the initial language isn’t maintained well. Interlanguage refers to the learner’s evolving internal system as they move between languages, not specifically about preserving the first language. Code-switching is the practice of alternating between languages in conversation, which is a communicative behavior rather than the overall pattern of maintaining both languages.