målssproget

Målssproget, often translated as "target language" or "language of ambition," is a linguistic concept primarily used in discussions about language acquisition, particularly in second language learning. It refers to the language that a learner aims to achieve proficiency in. This could be any language other than their native tongue, such as English for a Japanese speaker, or Spanish for a French speaker. The term emphasizes the aspirational aspect of language learning, focusing on the end goal of effective communication in the chosen language.

The concept of målssproget is central to pedagogical approaches in language education. Teachers and curriculum designers often structure their lessons and materials with the målssproget as the ultimate objective, ensuring that the activities and assessments are aligned with developing the skills necessary to use that language competently. This includes developing listening comprehension, speaking fluency, reading proficiency, and writing accuracy in the target language.

Understanding the målssproget helps learners to set realistic goals and track their progress. It also informs the selection of learning resources, such as textbooks, authentic materials, and conversation partners, all of which are chosen to facilitate mastery of the målssproget. The effectiveness of language learning strategies is often evaluated based on how well they equip learners to achieve their desired level of competence in the målssproget.