Mental Grammar and Language Concepts (Lecture Notes)

Question-and-answer flashcards covering core concepts from the notes on mental grammar, language components, brain areas, language development, and communication.

What are the four components of mental grammar?

Phonology, Semantics, Morphology, and Lexicon.

What is Phonology?

The sound system of a language.

What is Semantics?

The system of meanings.

What is Morphology?

The rules or processes of word formation.

What is Lexicon?

The vocabulary of words or a dictionary.

What is the difference between linguistic competence and linguistic performance?

Competence is underlying knowledge of language rules and structures; performance is how that knowledge is used in real-life communication.

What is the difference between language acquisition and language learning?

Acquisition happens naturally through exposure, intrinsic motivation, and subconscious processing; learning is a conscious process involving practice, studying, and deliberate effort.

Which two parts of the brain are responsible for language?

Broca's area and Wernicke's area.

What is Broca's area responsible for?

Speech production.

What is Wernicke's area responsible for?

Language comprehension.

Could a human kept from language until the age of 13 become fully fluent in all aspects of mental grammar? Why or why not? How do we know?

No; there is a critical language-learning period between ages 2-12, as illustrated by Genie, who was deprived of language and never fully acquired fluency.

Explain the difference between verbal and non-verbal communication.

Verbal uses spoken or written words; non-verbal uses body language, eye contact, gestures, posture, and facial expressions.

Explain the difference between language and communication.

Language is the structured system of words or signs used to express meaning; communication is the overall process of conveying a message, which can be with or without words.

What does it mean that grammar is productive?

Grammar allows an unlimited number of sentences and expressions, making language flexible and adaptable to new ideas and situations.