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Jorge has found that the knowledge he has of the structure of Spanish, his native language, has helped him learn English structure and syntax. Of the following, Jorge's experience best illustrates:

A) Generalization
B) Interference
C) Specific transfer
D) Neutralization

User John Mike
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Final answer:

Jorge's experience of using his knowledge of Spanish to help learn English structure and syntax is an example of Specific transfer, where skills from a first language are applied to a second language, potentially facilitating learning. Option C is the correct answer.

Step-by-step explanation:

Jorge has found that his knowledge of Spanish structure and syntax has been beneficial in learning English structure and syntax. This phenomenon most closely aligns with C) Specific transfer, where the learning and skills from one language are applied to the learning of another language. Specific transfer can be positive, as in Jorge's case, where the similarities between the two languages facilitate learning, or it can be negative if the learner incorrectly applies a familiar rule to the new language where it doesn't apply.

In linguistic terms, transferring knowledge from one language to another utilizes one's existing language foundation, which often accelerates the process of acquiring a new language. Studies have shown that bilingual education can enhance cognitive flexibility and contribute to academic and professional success, such as in the case of Lucy Alvarez who became a high-achieving law enforcement student fluent in both English and Spanish.

User Hughgo
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