Thought and Language - Lecture Three

Question 1

3 theories of how children acquire language

Answer 1

Rapidly, effortlessly, without being taught

Question 2

Sensitive period

Answer 2

The ideal time for acquiring certain parts of language

Question 3

Nativist views of language

Answer 3

Children are biologically predisposed to learn language, children are innately predisposed to acquire the syntax of language

Question 4

Social learning

Answer 4

Parentese, social response to infants language attempts, dependent on parents use and amount of language, response to innate explanations to language learning

Question 5

Parentese

Answer 5

Simplified speech, exaggerated intonation

Question 6

Social contexts of early word learning

Answer 6

Parents let child’s behaviour guide their talk
Words refers to things: children learn that gaze and objects are connected
Early words emerge as parts of social routines - to and fro conversation

Question 7

Feedback to children

Answer 7

Varies between cultures (independent and interdependent)

Question 8

Independent cultures

Answer 8

Internal attributes most salient - personality, morals
Self concept separate from group
Personal goals will take priority over group goals

Question 9

Interdependent cultures

Answer 9

Social role most salient
Self concept is part of the forum
Group goals take priority
Relationships crucial

Question 10

Child-centred talk

Answer 10

Adapting to talk to child’s level

Question 11

Situation-centred talk

Answer 11

Child learns ton adapt to to situation