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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 30, 2026

Examining Bilingual Language Control Using the Stroop Task

Examining Bilingual Language Control Using the Stroop Task

Published on: February 26, 2020

Two tongues, one brain: imaging bilingual speech production.

Anna J Simmonds¹, Richard J S Wise, Robert Leech

¹Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Imperial College London UK.

Frontiers in Psychology

|August 4, 2011

Summary

Learning a second language involves complex motor-sensory control, particularly for foreign accent acquisition. This review highlights the neural retraining and plasticity required for adult second language speech learning.

Keywords:

bilingualism fMRI language motor–sensory speech

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Published on: June 14, 2014

Area of Science:

Neuroscience
Linguistics
Speech Motor Control

Background:

Previous neurobilingualism research focused on cognitive control and linguistic processing.
Articulation in second language acquisition has been largely overlooked.
Foreign accent acquisition presents unique motor-sensory integration challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

To review second language (L2) speech from a motor-sensory control perspective.
To explore the neural complexities of adult L2 speech learning and foreign accent.
To discuss pedagogical and clinical implications of this motor-sensory approach.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on neurobilingualism and speech motor control.
Analysis of motor and sensory system demands in L2 speech.
Examination of neural plasticity in auditory and somatosensory cortices.

Main Results:

L2 speech learning requires significant retraining of motor control circuits for articulation.
Experience-dependent plasticity in auditory and somatosensory areas is crucial for L2 sound imitation.
Foreign accent development is linked to the integration of motor commands and sensory feedback.

Conclusions:

A motor-sensory perspective offers new insights into L2 speech acquisition.
Understanding neural retraining is vital for effective language pedagogy.
This framework can inform clinical interventions for speech disorders like dysarthria.