Child language acquisition theories

Question 1

Imitation theory

Skinner

Answer 1

Language is acquired by conditioning

Question 2

Language Acquisition Device

Chomsky

Answer 2

Chomsky theorised that language is a human-specific trait. LAD is a hypothetical implant in the brain. It describes a child’s innate ability to learn and develop language

Question 3

The Language Acquisition Support System (LASS)

Brunner

Answer 3

The system of support from caregivers to children helps them to acquire language and become sociable

Question 4

Restricted and Elaborated Code

Basil Bernstein

Answer 4

Language codes exist for shared understanding and broader use of linguistics

Question 5

Cognitive Development

Piaget

Answer 5

Intellectual development must precede language development

Question 6

Cognitive Development

Vygotsky

Answer 6

Community plays a central role in the process of making meaning