language Flashcards
language
A system of symbols and rules for combining symbols for the purpose of communication
Language production
the structured and conventional expression of thoughts through words
Speech
The expression of language through sounds
Language comprehension:
the process of understanding spoken, written, or signed language
Language hierarchical organization
Sentence: a coherent sequence of words that express meaning
Word: the smallest free form in a language
Morpheme: the smallest unit of sound that can carry meaning
Phoneme: the smallest unit of sound that can distinguish words in a language
syntax
a system of rules for oraganizing words so they mae sense
Pragmatics:
the practical aspects of language use, such as pace, gesturing, tone, and body language. Starts at 3 years of age
Prelinguistic period:
the period to production of the first word
common erroors
Overextension – specifics used to describe broader set
* Eg: ‘car’ for ALL motorized vehicles
– Underextension – general words used to describe specific instances
* Eg: ‘candy’ ONLY for peppermints
Telegraphic speech
by 2 years of age
Simple two-word sentences that contains only the crucial content, like a telegram
* Egs: ‘more milk’, ‘where ball?’, ‘mama dress’
Grammar
by 4 years of age
Basic rules of grammar are understood without formal education
Behaviourist theory:
Adults shape child’s speech through reinforcement
(Skinner)
– Children learn by imitating adults (Bandura)
– Use of child-directed speech
But * Difficult to reinforce ALL utterances
Grammar not shaped
Early errors creative, not imitative
Nativist theory:
Certain universal features common to all languages
Humans biologically programmed to acquire language (Chomsky’s Language Acquisition Device)
Interactionist view:
Says that both nature and nurture are important for language acquisition
2 Brain regions for language :
Broca’s area :critical for speech production
Wernicke’s area: critical for language comprehension
