The document summarizes research on the optimal starting age for second language acquisition. It discusses how age-related differences in SLA inform decisions about language education in Hong Kong. Specifically, it finds that while early starters may progress faster initially, older starters often perform better in the long term. The crucial comparison is long-term proficiency between age groups learning a language for the same duration. More evidence is needed to say whether early or late starters in Hong Kong maintain superiority over time.

1. The optimal starting age for second language learning : The case of Hong Kong Presenter : Shiao- Wei Paulinna Cheng Instructor : Dr. Pi- Ying Teresa Hsu Date : Oct. 27, 2008 1

2. SZE, P.(1994) The optimal starting age for second language learning: The case of Hong Kong. Journal of Primary Education,4 (2),49-54. 2

4. The purpose of this paper is to review and discuss the literature on age-related differences in second language acquisition (SLA), with a view to obtaining insights which might inform our decision making in Hong Kong. 4 Introduction

8. Time The duration of learning The time of the age which learning start The definition of time 8

10. In some areas, it is the late immersion students who perform better. Findings 10

11. Hong Kong Cantonese Chinese Reading and writing speaking Example: Hong Kong 11 Findings

12. Taiwan Chinese Reading and writing speaking Example: Taiwan 12 Findings

13. Example: Hong Kong 13 Findings Level subject P1 P2 P3 P4 P5 P6 English Chinese

14. • Mother language plays an important role. • The politics in a country may effect it’s educational policy. Personal reflection 14

15. monolingual bilingual Text book written in English Text book written in Chinese Schools in 1997 Hong Kong 15

16. Thanks for your attention! 16