NEUROLINGUISTICS AND THE EVOLUTION OF LANGUAGE

Abstract

This study explores how Uzbek-speaking students process different aspects of English as a second language through the framework of the Dual-Stream Model of Language Processing. By designing three targeted tasks—Minimal Pairs Challenge, Sentence Unscramble, and Describe the Picture—the research examined students’ performance in pronunciation, grammar, and productive language skills. Data were collected via Google Forms from 37 participants and analyzed using a mixed-methods approach. Quantitative results measured accuracy rates, while qualitative insights highlighted common patterns and errors. The findings revealed distinct challenges linked to both the dorsal stream (responsible for speech production) and the ventral stream (linked to sentence comprehension), with strong influence from students’ native language structure. The study offers practical implications for ESL instruction, emphasizing the need for targeted phonetic training and syntax-focused activities that consider L1 interference.