Which theory states that language learning starts from social interaction and is later internalized by the individual?

Which theory states that language learning starts from social interaction and is later internalized by the individual?

• A. Sociocultural theory
• B. Scaffolding
• C. Segmental
• D. Standard variety

Answer: (B)

Language learning emerges from social interaction and is then internalized as the learner’s own cognitive tools. This view, known as sociocultural theory, comes from Vygotsky and emphasizes that dialogue, collaboration, and culturally mediated activities provide the initial scaffolds for learning. Through social engagement, learners acquire linguistic patterns and problem-solving strategies, which are gradually transformed into internal knowledge that they can use independently. Scaffolding fits within this framework as the temporary support given by a more knowledgeable other to help learners operate within their zone of proximal development; as competence grows, support is removed and the learner internalizes the skills. The other terms don’t describe this process: segmental relates to sound units in language, and standard variety concerns language form or dialect, not the social-mediated path to internalization.

Language learning emerges from social interaction and is then internalized as the learner’s own cognitive tools. This view, known as sociocultural theory, comes from Vygotsky and emphasizes that dialogue, collaboration, and culturally mediated activities provide the initial scaffolds for learning. Through social engagement, learners acquire linguistic patterns and problem-solving strategies, which are gradually transformed into internal knowledge that they can use independently. Scaffolding fits within this framework as the temporary support given by a more knowledgeable other to help learners operate within their zone of proximal development; as competence grows, support is removed and the learner internalizes the skills. The other terms don’t describe this process: segmental relates to sound units in language, and standard variety concerns language form or dialect, not the social-mediated path to internalization.