Chapter 9 Language and Thought Flashcards
Language
set of symbols used for communication unique to humans that supports creative and progressive social interaction
3 components of language
language production, speech, language comprehension
Language production
structured, conventional expression of thoughts through words
speech
the expression of language through words
language comprehension
process of understanding spoken, written, signed language
Phonology
study of how individual sounds or phonemes are used to produce language
Phoneme
smallest unit of sound in a language, individual sound
morpheme
smallest unit of language that conveys meaning
semantics
how meaning in language is constructed of individual words and sentences
syntax
system for using words (semantics) and word order to convey meaning (grammar)
Pragmatics
practical aspects of language usage (speech pace, gesturing, body language)
What is the sequence of language learning?
Prevocal, babbling, first words, telegraphic, pragmatics, grammar
What happens during pre vocal learning?
babies distinguish phonemes that they use later for language like cooing or vowel like sounds
what happens during babbling stage of language learning?
meaningless experimental sounds preceding actual language
what happens when babies say their first word?
Simple single word talking begins with comprehension exceeding speech
what happens during telegraphic speech?
simple 2 word sentences but do not have essential words mommy cookie
what happens during pragmatics stage of development?
basic understanding of practical info regarding language
what happens during grammar stage of development?
basic rules of grammar are understood without formal education
The effect of nature on child’s language learning
children are genetically programmed at birth to learn language
The effect of nurture on child’s language learning
language is totally learned (behaviourist skinner) where babies are given rewards for a word or sound and so they repeat it
Which political leader is connected to the effect of nature on child’s language learning?
Chomsky wrote manufacturing consent and says we are born w language learning device in our brain that allows us to easily learn language
Critical period in language development
window of time where certain influences are necessary for appropriate formation in the brian
Sensitive period in language development
window of time during which the brain is more susceptible to influences
child-directed speech
simple high-pitched, slow paced, emotion charged speech used by adults when speaking w babies and young children
- this can help keep babies interested and learn words