Cambridge English A Terminology #8

Babbling

The first stage of language acquisition, where children begin to recognise, produce and experiment with vocal sounds. This stage typically occurs between birth and around 11 months.

Caretaker language

The simple style of speech used by those who look after infants and small children. Also known as child-directed speech (CDS).

Conditioning

A process whereby behavior is changed or modified due to the repeated presence of a stimulus

Conservation

In psychology, the cognitive ability of a child to see that a particular quantity will stay the same, even if put into a differently shaped container.

Egocentric

Thinking only about oneself.

Feedback

Verbal and nonverbal given by listeners to in response to a speaker’s utterances.

Functional Theory

The idea that languages arise and evolve according to the changing needs of the communities within which they are used.

Heuristic Function

Using language to learn about one’s environment.

Imaginative function

Using language to create stories or other imagined notions

Instrumental function

Using language to express one’s needs

Interactional function

Using language to engage with others

Personal function

Using language to express thoughts about oneself

Regulatory function

Using language to affect the behavior of others

Representational function

Using language to share or request information

Holophrastic

An early stage of language acquisition, typically between 11 and 18 months, where in a single word is sued to express a complete idea.

Imitation theory

The idea that children acquire language by copying other speakers.

Inflection

Any form of change of form which distinguishes different grammatical functions of the same word (e.g. adding -s to indicate a plural form)

Innatism

The general idea that children are born with existing knowledge or ideas, often said to include linguistic rules, categories, and structures.

Language Acquisition Device (LAD)

The theory that humans possess an innate system that allowed the spontaneous development of language. Developed by Noam Chomsky.

Language Acquisition Support System (LASS)

A system of support from caregivers to children that helps them develop language and become sociable. Developed by Jerome Bruner.

Nativism

A development of innatism, involving the claim that humans are born with certain skills or abilities, such as the capacity to learn languages.