L10 - Language Comprehension Flashcards
(25 cards)
Two main levels of sentence analysis
- Syntactic structure (parsing)
- Sentence meaning (pragmatics)
What is parsing
- Analysis of grammatical structure of sentences
4 ways syntax and semantics interact
- Syntax before semantics
- Semantics before syntax
- Both occur together
- Closely related
What are global and local ambiguities in sentences
- Global ambiguity affects sentence’s whole meaning
- Local occurs temporarily during parsing
What are prosodic cues and how do they help in parsing
- Stress, pauses, intonation, rhythm and word duration
- Help resolve ambiguity
Two broad types of parsing models
- Two-stage, serial
- One-stage, parallel
What is the Garden Path model
- Two stage model where a simple syntactic structure is built first, revised if it conflicts with meaning
What are ‘minimal attachment’ and ‘late closure’ in parsing?
Minimal attachment: simplest structure preferred. Late closure: new words added to current phrase if possible.
What are strengths and weaknesses of the Garden Path model?
✅ Strengths:
Explains common sentence processing errors
→ e.g., misinterpretations in “The old man the boats.”
Supports experimental evidence
→ Eye-tracking and reading-time studies show that readers often follow a syntax-first strategy.
Simple and structured
→ Clear stages: syntax first → semantics later.
❌ Weaknesses:
Ignores immediate influence of context and meaning
→ Real-world comprehension often uses semantics early, not just syntax.
Fails to explain individual differences
→ Skilled readers sometimes use interactive cues right away.
Cannot fully account for all sentence types
→ Some ambiguities are resolved more easily with semantic or contextual help.
What is the Constraint-based model of parsing?
A one-stage model using syntax, semantics, and context simultaneously to evaluate multiple interpretations.
What are the strengths and weaknesses of the Constraint-based model?
Strengths: uses all information from outset. Weaknesses: lacks precise predictions like the Garden Path model.
What is the Unrestricted Race Model?
A hybrid model using all info sources; fastest interpretation is adopted unless contradicted, prompting reanalysis.
What is pragmatics in language?
The study of intended meaning, especially when it’s not literal.
What are examples of figurative language?
Metaphor, irony, idioms (e.g., ‘Time is a thief’, ‘Kick the bucket’).
What is the Standard Pragmatic Model of metaphor understanding?
- Literal meaning accessed. 2. If it doesn’t fit, search for non-literal. Predicts slower metaphor processing.
What is the Prediction Model of metaphor understanding?
Uses latent semantic analysis followed by construction-integration to interpret metaphorical meaning.
What is common ground in communication?
Shared knowledge between speaker and listener used to ensure understanding.
What is the egocentric heuristic?
Relying on one’s own knowledge rather than shared knowledge, often causing misunderstanding.
What are the three types of inferences in language comprehension?
- Logical (based on word meanings). 2. Bridging (link parts of text). 3. Elaborative (add details using knowledge).
What are causal inferences?
A type of bridging inference that links cause and effect between sentences using context and prior knowledge.
What are the two stages of forming a causal inference?
- Bonding (automatic activation). 2. Resolution (align with context).
What is schema theory?
Proposes knowledge is stored in ‘schemas’ that shape comprehension, memory, and expectations.
What was shown in Bransford & Johnson’s (1972) experiment on schemas?
Comprehension improved when a title (schema) was provided before a vague passage.
