How does an adult learning a second language typically differ from an elementary student?

The choice that suggests adults learning a second language are more likely to compare the rules of their first language (L1) and the second language (L2) is accurate because adult learners typically bring their prior linguistic knowledge into the learning process. They often draw comparisons between the structures, vocabulary, and grammar of their native language and the new language they are acquiring. This analytical approach enables them to understand the new language’s mechanics more quickly, as they can relate it to what they already know.

In contrast, younger students, particularly elementary-aged children, often learn languages in a more immersive and less analytical way. They focus on communication and context rather than the explicit rules of language. This fundamental difference in cognitive processing between adults and children plays a significant role in language acquisition, making adults more inclined to analyze and compare languages as part of their learning strategy.