Age and Ultimate Attainment in the Pronunciation of a Foreign Language.

Reports on two studies addressing the issue of ultimate attainment of pronunciation by late second-language learners. Findings indicate that it is not impossible to achieve an authentic, nativelike pronunciation of a second language after a specified biological time. The article argues that certain learner characteristics and learning contexts may synergize to override the disadvantages of a late start. (38 references) (Author/CK)