Discuss, using Chomsky’s language acquisition device (LAD), why Ivy may be able to speak both languages. You must make reference to the context in your answer. (8)

Question 1

Chomsky suggests that children are born with an innate language acquisition device (LAD).

Answer 1

Ivy will be able to speak both languages as the LAD allows a child to learn any language that they are exposed to.

Question 2

The knowledge contained in the LAD is known as universal grammar and includes all the important characteristics of world grammar.

Answer 2

Ivy will have learned English from birth, but universal grammar will allow her to understand the characteristics of the French language.

Question 3

Children have a critical period of language learning and only have an innate ability to learn language up to the age of puberty.

Answer 3

Ivy may find it difficult to master the French language as she is 12 years old and may be at the onset of puberty.

Question 4

Language can be learned through the processes of operant Conditioning.

Answer 4

Ivy may be positively rewarded by her French friends when she speaks the language correctly.