dual immersion n
see two-way immersion education
duality of structure n
a distinctive characteristic of language which refers to the fact that languages
are organized in terms of two levels. At one level, language consists of
sequences of segments or units which do not themselves carry meaning
(such as the letters “g”, “d” and “o”). However, when these units are
combined in certain sequences, they form larger units and carry meaning
(such as dog, god).
durative n
see aspect
dyad n
two people in communication with each other. A dyad can be considered as
the smallest part of a larger communication network. For example, in
describing language use within a family, some dyads would be mother-child,
grandmother-child, elder sister-younger sister.
dynamic verb n
see static-dynamic distinction
dynamic systems theory n
also dynamical systems theory
a theory that seeks to explain complex systems in which variables interact
with each other and the system continually changes. Weather and traffic
patterns are examples of dynamic systems. Such models have begun to be
applied to SLA, in recognition of the fact that language learning shows
some of the core characteristics of dynamic systems, including inter-
connectedness of subsystems (e.g. both social and cognitive), development
over time, and variation.
dysfluency ndysfluent adj
see fluency
dysgraphia adj
a learning disability that causes difficulty in the ability to write at a level
typical of one’s age, intelligence or education. It may result is difficulty in
spelling, letter formation and other difficulties and lead to both mental and
physical discomfort when trying to write.
dual immersion