Journal of Higher Education Research

The term interlanguage was first used by American linguist, Larry Selinker [2]. It is the unique linguistic system because it is neither L1 nor L2 but at the same time bears resemblances to both, which functions as a relatively systematic transition from initial knowledge of a language tonative proficiency during the process of language acquisition, and is always regarded as an unstable set of language characteristics produced by learners. Fossilization in interlanguage is significant in English learning. It is a universal phenomenon in Second Language Acquisition and it derives from multiple factors. This paper analyzes the conception and the causes of the phenomenon. Through this research, we should hold a totally different view from traditional one on the nature and function of teacher’s training, teaching materials and the handling of the learners’ errors, etc. It tries to propose some solutions to deal with fossilization so as to improve the effect gains in English learning.