Beginning again: The impact of international adoption on the English language development of a preschooler

Abstract

This case study investigates the English language development of a female preschooler who was adopted from China at age three years seven months and was four years 11 months at the time of assessment. Her language in a variety of contexts and her development with regard to typical monolingual preschoolers is discussed. Language samples, surveys, observations, interviews, formal assessments, and a storytelling experience are used to document her language development. Descriptive results for phonology, semantax, morphology, and pragmatics are reported. Factors affecting her English language development — external and individual — are explored. Findings suggest this case study fits the unique criteria of a ‘second first language’ learner. Specific characteristics of this type of bilingual learner are explored, as well as recommendations for practitioners and families.