THEORETICAL PERSPECTIVES ON SPEAKING PROFICIENCY AND LANGUAGE LEARNING
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Keywords

speaking proficiency, language acquisition, theoretical perspectives, second language learning, communicative competence, sociocultural theory

Abstract

This article explores theoretical perspectives on speaking proficiency in both first and second language acquisition. Speaking, as a core component of communicative competence, has been examined through various linguistic, cognitive, and sociocultural lenses. Using a literature-based methodology, this paper reviews key theories including behaviorism, innatism, cognitive theory, sociocultural theory, communicative competence, the input and output hypotheses, and interaction-based models. These frameworks offer distinct yet complementary insights into how spoken language is developed, practiced, and assessed. The discussion highlights the importance of integrating theory into pedagogy to foster fluency, accuracy, and contextual appropriateness in language learners. Ultimately, this article emphasizes the need for an interdisciplinary approach in understanding and teaching speaking proficiency, contributing to more effective language education practices.

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