D. Theoretical Perspective
Apart from Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligence, another theory which can be related with the study is
Krashen’s Theory of Second Language Acquisition. This theory consists of five main hypotheses. One of the proposed
hypotheses is the Affective Filter Hypothesis. According to Schütz (2007), this hypothesis represents Krashen’s view
that a number of affective variables play a supportive role in second language acquisition. These variables include
motivation, self-confidence and anxiety. Krashen claims that learners with high motivation, self-confidence, a good
self-image, and a low-level of anxiety are better equipped to learn a second language compared with learners with low
motivation and low self-esteem. The former become more successful to learn a new language while the latter create a
mental block which prevents them to learn the language successfully.
Schoepp (2001) describes the Affective Filter Hypothesis in Krashen’s Theory of Second Language Acquisition as an
explanation of how the affective factors relate to language learning. It is appealing to teachers since this hypothesis can
support reasons as to why some students learn and why others do not. Teachers, of course, have long recognised the