Lecture 11 - Language Acquisition

Question 1

Infinite generativity

Answer 1

• human language is based on this
• ability to take the word symbols of a language and combine them in a virtually infinite number of ways

Question 2

Language and human biology

Answer 2

• unique vocal apparatus that non-humans lack (IE: larynx, pharynx, tongue, lips)
• brain specialization (IE: broca’s and wernicke’s)
• specific genetic systems

Question 3

In addition to biology, we need what for language development?

Answer 3

• a human environment
  
  • early auditory experiences
  • gestures (IE: infant pointing, high SES = more gesturing, low SES = less gesturing)

Question 4

Infant directed speech

Answer 4

• distinctive mode of speech that adults adopt when talking to babies and very young children
• higher pitch, lots of emotion/enthusiasm, less complex ideas, lots of repetition
• draws attention of baby

Question 5

Behaviorism/Learning Theory

Answer 5

• nurture
• language learned through imitation and reinforcement
• lang dev comes from experience and reward and punishment
• cannot account for syntax
• semantics is reinforced more than syntax

Question 6

Nativist perspective

Answer 6

• nature
• human brains are innately wired to learn lang
• Universal grammar (UG) - part of brain designed for language, grammatic rules and constraints

Question 7

Sensitive period hypothesis

Answer 7

• window where exposure has to occur, or ability is lost
• between birth and puberty for language
• nicaraguan sign language
• internationally adopted children (40-60% have language delays)

Question 8

Cochlear implants

Answer 8

• surgically implanted device providing a sense of sound to children w/ severe hearing loss
• depends on neuroplasticity