child language acquisition

What is child language acquisition?

The process by which children learn to communicate and understand language.

At what age do most children start speaking recognizable words?

Around 12 months of age.

What are the two key theories of language acquisition?

Nativist theory and behaviorist theory.

What is the nativist theory in language acquisition?

The belief that children are born with an innate ability to learn language.

What does the behaviorist theory suggest regarding language acquisition?

Language is learned through imitation, reinforcement, and conditioning.

What role does social interaction play in language acquisition?

It is crucial as it provides context and encouragement for using language.

What is 'motherese' or 'infant-directed speech'?

A simplified and exaggerated form of speech that adults use with infants.

What is a 'language acquisition device' (LAD)?

A hypothetical tool in the brain proposed by Noam Chomsky that helps children acquire language.

What is phonemic awareness?

The ability to recognize and manipulate sounds in spoken language.

How does vocabulary development occur in children?

Through exposure to language in context, interactions, and reading.

What is the critical period hypothesis?

The theory that there is a window of time during which language must be acquired.

What are the stages of language development in children?

Cooing, babbling, one-word, two-word, and telegraphic speech.

What is telegraphic speech?

Early speech stage where children use two-word combinations that convey meaning.

Why is play important in child language acquisition?

Play encourages communication, social skills, and language use in context.

What is languaging?

The process of using language to verbalize thoughts and actions.

How do children learn grammar?

Through exposure and practice, often using rules that they develop based on language input.

What role does receptive language play in acquisition?

Refers to the ability to understand language before being able to speak it.

What is the significance of a rich language environment?

It enhances vocabulary development and language skills in children.

What is fast mapping?

The ability of children to learn a new word after hearing it only a few times.

What is overgeneralization in language acquisition?

When children apply grammatical rules too broadly (e.g., saying 'goed' instead of 'went').

How does bilingualism affect language acquisition?

It can enhance cognitive flexibility and cultural understanding but may lead to initial delays in vocabulary.

What factors influence child language acquisition?

Social interaction, exposure to language, environment, and cognitive development.

What is the role of caregivers in language acquisition?

They provide language input, model speech patterns, and foster communication.

What is the difference between receptive and expressive language?

Receptive language is understanding language; expressive language is using language to communicate.

How does singing and rhyming assist in language acquisition?

It enhances phonemic awareness and makes language learning more engaging.

What is the importance of storytelling in language development?

It increases vocabulary, comprehension skills, and encourages narrative skills.

How does exposure to different languages in early childhood benefit children?

It enhances cognitive abilities and linguistic skills.

What is echoing in language development?

When an adult repeats back what a child says to encourage communication.

What influences the rate of language acquisition among children?

Individual differences, quality of input, and social interaction.

What is the significance of gestures in language acquisition?

Gestures provide a method of communication and can precede spoken language.

How does a child's socio-economic status affect language acquisition?

Children from lower socio-economic backgrounds may have less exposure to rich language.

What is joint attention in language acquisition?

A shared focus of two individuals on an object or action, crucial for language learning.

What type of activities can promote language skills in toddlers?

Interactive reading, singing, and conversation.

What are some indicators of typical language development?

Babbles by 4-6 months, speaks first words by 12 months, and forms simple sentences by 2-3 years.

What happens during the 'silent period' of language acquisition?

Some children may listen and understand before they start speaking.

What is the impact of delay in language acquisition?

It may lead to later difficulties in literacy and communication.

How do children develop narrative skills?

Through retelling stories, participating in conversations, and imaginative play.

What is receptive-expressive language disorder?

A communication disorder where a child's understanding of language is significantly different from their ability to express it.

What are speech sound disorders?

Challenges in producing speech sounds correctly that can affect communication.

What is language immersion?

An approach where children are placed in an environment where they are surrounded by a second language.

How do personal experiences impact language use?

They shape vocabulary, expressions, and contextual usage of language.

What is the role of curiosity in language acquisition?

Curiosity drives children to seek and understand language around them.

What can parents do to support language acquisition?

Read aloud, engage in conversations, and provide a responsive linguistic environment.

How does technology affect language acquisition?

Screens can provide exposure to language, but excessive use may limit interpersonal communication opportunities.

What is phonological awareness?

The ability to recognize and work with sounds in spoken language.

How does culture influence language acquisition?

Cultural norms affect how children are taught language and communication styles.

What is the impact of storytelling on child development?

It significantly enhances language skills, creativity, and understanding of narrative structure.

What are the signs of advanced language development?

Early use of complex sentences, rich vocabulary, and effective storytelling.

What is the 'poor input hypothesis'?

The idea that children exposed to limited or poor quality language input may struggle with acquisition.

What strategies do children use to learn new words?

They often use context cues, prior knowledge, and word structure analysis.

What is 'scaffolding' in language learning?

Providing support to help children learn language progressively.

What role does play-based learning have in language acquisition?

It creates opportunities for language use in a natural and enjoyable context.

What is repetitive language and its significance?

When children hear the same phrases often; it aids in memory and comprehension.

How does peer interaction aid in language development?

Children learn from each other through conversation, play, and imitation.

What are language delays?

When children do not meet typical language milestones within expected timeframes.

What is expressive language disorder?

A condition where a child has trouble expressing themselves verbally.

What is the difference between bilingualism and multilingualism?

Bilingualism is speaking two languages fluently, while multilingualism is speaking more than two.

What is a language-rich environment?

An environment filled with varied language experiences that promotes linguistic development.

How does peer feedback influence language acquisition?

Constructive feedback from peers can encourage children to improve and refine their language skills.

What are some non-verbal communication forms?

Gestures, facial expressions, and body language that convey meaning without words.

What should a caregiver do when a child doesn't speak by age 2?

Consider seeking guidance from a pediatrician or speech therapist for evaluation.

How often should parents read to their children?

Daily reading is recommended to promote literacy and vocabulary skills.

What is the significance of rhymes and songs in early language development?

They improve rhyme awareness and phonemic skills while making language learning enjoyable.

What are some common misconceptions about child language acquisition?

That children learn language solely through mimicry; real acquisition is more complex involving deeper cognitive processes.

What is the significance of a child's first words?

They mark the beginning of expressive language and communication.

How can cultural practices affect language acquisition?

Different cultures have varied methods of communication and storytelling that influence language learning.

What importance do labels have for children learning language?

Labels help children connect words with their meanings and facilitate vocabulary growth.