EFFECTS OF THE SECOND LANGUAGE ON THE FIRST – MEASURING CONCEPTUAL FLUENCY

Abstract: The paper considers effects of the second language (L2) on the first (L1) that may result in conceptual transfer i.e. semantic and pragmatic transfer. It is argued that bilinguals use their first language differently than monolinguals. The concepts relevant in psycholinguistic research are defined and related research is reviewed. Operational definition of conceptual fluency that can be applied to textual analysis is put foward. Attempt has also been made to define productivity and lexical diversity that can as well be indicators of conceptual transfer. The choice of adequate research participants is suggested and in conclusion guidelines for future research are given.