Abstract:As an inevitable result of language acquisition, language attrition is a process in which   language ability is gradually weakened and lost. Being a part of language, as well as language acquisition, language attrition can not be ignored. With the continuous development of English teaching, it seems necessary to study the attrition of English in Chinese context and recently there are many studies on factors affecting language attrition of college students. This thesis will analyze the enlightenment of language attrition on college students’ English acquisition from the language attrition theory, and explores an anti-attrition mode for college students’ English acquisition.

Key words: language attrition; college student; English acquisition

CONTENTS

Abstract

中文摘要

1. Introduction. 1

2. Factors Affecting Language Attrition of College Students.1

  2.1 Relationship Between Attrition and Contacts

2.2 Relationship Between Attrition and Social Emotion

2.3 Relationship Between Attrition and English Proficiency

  2.4 Relationship Between Attrition and Acquisition Mode

3. Enlightenments of language attrition on English acquisition of college students4

  3.1 Contacting more in English environment

  3.2 Enhancing learning motivation 

  3.3 Improving English proficiency

  3.4 Consolidating acquired knowledge

  3.5 Fostering correct acquisition mode

4. Conclusion8

Bibliography.10

Acknowledgements...11