The use of "goed" by an ELL is an example of which linguistic phenomenon?

The use of "goed" by an ELL is an example of which linguistic phenomenon?

• A. Negative washback
• B. Overgeneralization
• C. Self-correction
• D. Recasting

Answer: (B)

The use of "goed" by an English Language Learner (ELL) is a clear example of overgeneralization. This phenomenon occurs when a learner takes a grammatical rule they have acquired and applies it too broadly, beyond its correct context. In English, the regular past tense formation typically involves adding "-ed" to the base form of verbs. However, irregular verbs like "go" do not follow this rule; the correct past tense is "went." By using "goed," the ELL demonstrates an understanding of the regular past tense rule but incorrectly applies it to an irregular verb, illustrating the process of overgeneralization in language learning. This helps teachers and learners recognize that while the learner is making progress by forming past tense verbs, further instruction on irregular verbs is necessary for mastery.

The use of "goed" by an English Language Learner (ELL) is a clear example of overgeneralization. This phenomenon occurs when a learner takes a grammatical rule they have acquired and applies it too broadly, beyond its correct context. In English, the regular past tense formation typically involves adding "-ed" to the base form of verbs. However, irregular verbs like "go" do not follow this rule; the correct past tense is "went." By using "goed," the ELL demonstrates an understanding of the regular past tense rule but incorrectly applies it to an irregular verb, illustrating the process of overgeneralization in language learning. This helps teachers and learners recognize that while the learner is making progress by forming past tense verbs, further instruction on irregular verbs is necessary for mastery.