Which term describes errors that originate from a learner's first language influence?

• A. Systematic Errors
• B. Transfer Errors
• C. Cloze
• D. Dialogue Journal

Answer: (B)

Errors that originate from a learner’s first language influence are transfer errors. This happens when features from the L1—like grammar, word order, or sentence structure—bleed into the second language, producing forms that reflect the native language rather than the target language. For example, a Spanish speaker might place adjectives after the noun in English, saying “car red” instead of “red car,” because adjectives often follow the noun in Spanish. These errors show how L1 habits shape L2 production, and they can hinder or help communication depending on how closely the L1 pattern matches the L2. Systematic errors are broader mistakes from developing rules, while a cloze task and a dialogue journal are activities, not error types.