Chapter 2

Question 1

Language Acquisition

Answer 1

nature (genetics) vs nurture (environment)

Question 2

What are the two main theories of language acquisition?

Answer 2

1. generative/nativist (nature)

2. interactionalist (shares nature and nurture)

Question 3

Generative/Nativist Theory

Answer 3

born with it

Question 4

Interactionalist Theory

Answer 4

combining birth and environment

Question 5

B.F. Skinner

Answer 5

believes all behaviors are learned according to operant conditioning principle

Question 6

Operant Behavior

Answer 6

any behavior whose frequency can be affected by the responses (reinforcement or punishment)

Question 7

Who supports the generative/nativist theory? What are its principles?

Answer 7

Chomsky. language is universal, rules are innate in the brain, doesn’t change

Question 8

Limitations to Chomsky’s theory?

Answer 8

~doesn’t account syntax (“wha’sup”)
~doesn’t address integration
~doesn’t address role of input
~language continues in school and adulthood

Question 9

What are the principles of the interactionalist theory? (constructionist)

Answer 9

child hears and develops structure over time, more language emerges from language use, developing patterns heard, patterns are meaningful that are used

Question 10

Limitations to interactionalist theory?

Answer 10

~this approach can’t account for the similarities of language learning use across children

Question 11

What are the two types of research?

Answer 11

structured and unstructured

Question 12

Structured Testing

Answer 12

formal testing, might get data not normally given quick, might not reflect everyday lives, experimental factors

Question 13

Unstructured Testing

Answer 13

naturalistic, more real life output, may be challenged by context, may not observe some elements, sampling techniques vary