Ontogenesis Model of the L2 Lexical Representation

Abstract

We introduce the blueprint of the Ontogenesis Model of the L2 Lexical Representation (OM) that focuses on the development of lexical representations. The OM has three dimensions: linguistic domains (phonological, orthographic, and semantic), mappings between domains, and networks of lexical representations. The model assumes that fuzziness is a pervasive property of the L2 lexicon: most L2 lexical representations are low resolution and the ontogenetic curve of their development does not reach the optimum (i.e., the ultimate stage of their attainment with optimal encoding) in one or more dimensions. We review the findings on lexical processing and vocabulary training to show that the OM has a potential to provide an interpretation for the results that have been treated separately and to move us forward in building a comprehensive model of L2 lexical acquisition and processing.

Fuzzy Lexical Representations in Adult Second Language Speakers

“…Given that the fuzziness in L2 lexical encoding of particular words may never be resolved for individual L2 speakers even when they reach high L2 proficiency levels, it is useful to incorporate the degree of fuzziness in lexical encoding as a property of numerous L2 words that interacts with the well-attested input frequency effects. Accounting for fuzziness in form and meaning encoding as well as in the mapping between them will contribute to a more efficient and accurate modeling of the learning trajectories for different types of lexical units, L2 learner profiles, and learning conditions, as well as explain the differences between L1 and L2 lexical processing [see below about the developmental trajectories for L2 LRs within the framework of the Ontogenetic Model ( Bordag et al, 2021a , b )].…”

“…In section “ How Can the Construct of FLRs Help to Improve the Existing Models of LRs and Lexical Access? ,” we discuss how lexical encoding becomes more precise as L2 learners’ proficiency increases within the framework of the Ontogenetic Model ( Bordag et al, 2021a , b ).…”

“…The present article leaves out a detailed discussion of the developmental aspects of lexical representations due to space limitations. The developmental trajectories of individual LRs that depend on the linguistic properties of the LR and the learning context are captured by the Ontogenesis Model of the Lexical Representation (OM, Bordag et al, 2021a , b ), and we refer the reader to these publications. The OM describes the ontogenesis of the LR within its phonological, orthographic and semantic domains, the mapping between them and with respect to their engagement in their corresponding networks.…”

Bilingual Aspects of the Ontogenesis Model: Parasitic Connections at all Levels of Representation?

“…Levels of Representation? Bordag, Gor and Opitz (2021) (henceforth BGO) deserve credit for having developed the (to-date) most comprehensive model of L2 lexical acquisition, by building on a wide range of studies on perception and comprehension of L2 lexis. However, although they cite numerous studies that point to the importance of cross-linguistic influence (CLI) for L2 lexical processing and development, they deliberately eschew the bilingual focus of other models.…”

Helping busy Suzy fight fuzzy in foreign language learning

“…The Ontogenesis Model of the L2 Lexical Representation (OM) introduced by Bordag, Gor, and Opitz (2021) represents a significant contribution to the field of second language (L2) acquisition. Their efforts in characterizing the nature of developing L2 representations, a hitherto underexplored domain, are commendable.…”