A Study on Errors in the Second Language Acquisition
Estelle Davutoglu

Abstract
The concern in this essay is to tackle the problem of source, cause, and significance of errors in the second language acquisition. A wide range of literature deals with second language acquisition and learning research (Cook, 1991; Clark, 1975; Fromkin, 1973; Richards, 1974; Le Pan, 1999; Levine, 1990; Mohan, 2001; Saville-Troike, 1976; Rivers et al, 1978). In addition, practical support for teaching English as a second or foreign language is available in miscellaneous books and magazines (Haskell, 1984; Lee, 1964; Harmer, 1998; Harrison, 1973; Close, 1962; ELT ).The essay is based not only on reading, but also classroom experience and observation. The first chapter deals with different approaches as regards to errors. The second chapter focuses on the different types of errors and their source. All in all, the problem of error control will be emphasized. This essay is an attempt at a descriptive and reflective enquiry, but the analysis in such a brief space certainly requires considerable compression and omission. The synthesis of my reading, observation and classroom experience gives an insight of source, cause and significance of errors in the second language acquisition. Errors should not be disapproved of. Indeed, errors should not be seen as exemplifiers of ‘linguistic sin’ rather it is to consider them as an essential condition of learning a second language. Key words: acquisition, errors, languages, causes, learning, teaching

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