Chapter 5, 6, 7 - Input from birth, Later language development, Homesign Systems

Question 1

Bimodal Bilingualism

Answer 1

Refers to the use of two languages in different modalities, such as sign language and spoken language

Question 2

Code-blending
1. Definition
2. What is it used?

Answer 2

1. Involves the simultaneous production of parts of an utterance in speech and sign
2. Code-blending is used by bimodal bilinguals for creative purposes, such as marking in-group status with other bilinguals.
   It can involve combining elements of both languages, such as using an ASL classifier with an English verb phrase, and it follows grammatical rules that are similar to those of code-switching.

Question 3

Critical period hypothesis
1. Definition
2. Influenced by what?

Answer 3

1. Suggests that there is a special window of opportunity during which language can be acquired easily.
   After this period, language development becomes more difficult.
2. The critical period hypothesis is influenced by observations that young children are better language learners than adults, and that children can pick up multiple languages with ease, as long as there is sufficient accessible input and others to use the languages with.