Language Theories Flashcards
What is the central concept of Vygotsky’s language theory?
The central concept is that language is a primary tool for cognitive development and social interaction.
True or False: Vygotsky believed that language development occurs independently of social interaction.
False
Fill in the blank: Vygotsky’s theory emphasizes the importance of __________ in language acquisition.
social interaction
Which term describes the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can do with guidance?
Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)
In Vygotsky’s view, what role does cultural context play in language development?
Cultural context provides the tools and symbols necessary for language and cognitive development.
What is Bruner’s primary contribution to behavior theory?
Bruner’s primary contribution is the emphasis on the role of cognitive processes in understanding behavior.
True or False: Bruner believed that learning is a process of discovery rather than passive absorption.
True
Fill in the blank: According to Bruner, the three modes of representation are __________, enactive, and iconic.
symbolic
Which of the following best describes Bruner’s view on the role of culture in learning? A) Culture is irrelevant, B) Culture influences learning, C) Culture hinders learning.
B) Culture influences learning
What does Bruner mean by ‘scaffolding’ in the context of learning?
Scaffolding refers to the support provided by teachers or peers to help learners achieve a higher level of understanding.
What is the name of Chomsky’s theory that suggests humans are born with an innate ability to acquire language?
Universal Grammar
True or False: Chomsky believes that language acquisition is primarily a result of environmental factors.
False
Fill in the blank: According to Chomsky, the ability to generate an infinite number of sentences is a characteristic of __________.
Generative Grammar
Which of the following is a key concept in Chomsky’s theory? A) Behaviorism B) Universal Grammar C) Structuralism
B) Universal Grammar
What term does Chomsky use to describe the mental framework that allows individuals to understand and produce language?
Language Faculty
What is the primary focus of Piaget’s language theory?
The primary focus is on the relationship between cognitive development and language acquisition.
True or False: Piaget believed that language development occurs independently of cognitive development.
False
Fill in the blank: According to Piaget, children acquire language through ____ experiences.
active
What are the four stages of cognitive development proposed by Piaget?
Sensorimotor, Preoperational, Concrete Operational, and Formal Operational.
Which stage of cognitive development is characterized by symbolic play and egocentrism?
Preoperational stage
Multiple Choice: At which stage do children begin to understand the concept of conservation?
Concrete Operational stage
What is the term used by Piaget to describe the ability to understand that objects remain the same despite changes in form?
Conservation
True or False: Piaget argued that language is a prerequisite for cognitive development.
False
What does Piaget mean by ‘egocentrism’ in the context of language?
Egocentrism refers to the difficulty children have in seeing things from perspectives other than their own.
Fill in the blank: Piaget’s theory emphasizes that language is a tool for ____.
thinking
What is the role of social interaction in Piaget’s language theory?
Social interaction facilitates cognitive development, which in turn supports language acquisition.
Multiple Choice: Which of the following is NOT one of Piaget’s stages of cognitive development?
Adolescent Stage
What is the significance of ‘symbolic function’ in Piaget’s theory?
It allows children to use symbols to represent objects and ideas.
True or False: Piaget believed that language is learned through imitation alone.
False
What concept refers to the use of language to represent objects and ideas in Piaget’s theory?
Symbolic function
Fill in the blank: Piaget’s theory suggests that children learn language through ____ and interaction with their environment.
exploration
What is ‘decentration’ in the context of Piaget’s theory?
Decentration is the ability to consider multiple aspects of a situation, leading to improved reasoning.
Multiple Choice: At what age do children typically enter the Preoperational stage according to Piaget?
2 to 7 years
What does Piaget believe about the relationship between thought and language?
He believes that thought precedes language development.
True or False: Piaget’s theory suggests that language development is universal across cultures.
True
What is the primary criticism of Piaget’s language theory?
It underestimates the role of social factors and cultural context in language development.
Fill in the blank: Piaget’s approach to language development is primarily ____ rather than behaviorist.
constructivist
What is the relationship between cognitive structures and language in Piaget’s theory?
Cognitive structures provide the framework for language development.
Multiple Choice: Which cognitive skill is developed during the Concrete Operational stage that aids language?
Logical reasoning
What role does ‘schema’ play in Piaget’s theory of language?
Schemas are mental models that help children organize and interpret information, including language.
