Linguistics ch-13 Summary
Linguistics ch-13 Summary
Linguistics ch-13 Summary
Introduction
Acquisition
Additional Notes:
The text emphasizes the importance of social interaction and
environmental factors in language learning.
It challenges the idea of language as purely genetic and
highlights the active role of the child in acquiring a language.
The case studies serve as examples to illustrate the points
about interaction, exposure, and physical abilities.
1. Caregiver Speech:
Adults modify their speech when interacting with young
children, using a simplified style called "caregiver speech"
(motherese, child-directed speech).
Features of caregiver speech include:
Frequent questions with exaggerated intonation, loudness, and
slow tempo.
"Babytalk" words with simplified sounds and syllables.
Interactive structure, responding to child's actions and
vocalizations as turns in conversation.
Simple sentence structures and repetition.
4. Overall Message:
Caregiver speech plays a crucial role in helping infants acquire
language by providing a supportive and interactive environment
for learning.
Additional Notes:
The text focuses on the characteristics and function of caregiver
speech rather than the specific mechanisms of language
acquisition.
The example dialogue illustrates the interactive nature of
caregiver speech and the child's early attempts at
communication.
Overall Message:
Language acquisition follows a biologically driven schedule,
starting with early processing and attention before transitioning
to speech production.
Additional Notes:
The text emphasizes the early stages of language development
before speaking begins.
It doesn't delve into the specific stages or details of later
language acquisition.
The focus is on the universal timeline and the biological basis of
language learning.
4. Individual Variation:
Age ranges for specific features are approximations and vary
between children.
Additional Notes:
The text emphasizes the gradual progression from simple
vocalizations to more complex babbling with increasing age.
It highlights the importance of early sound perception and the
ability to distinguish linguistic features.
The final point reminds us that individual children may reach
developmental milestones at different times.
3. Beyond Naming:
While some utterances seem to name objects, others suggest
broader use.
An empty bed might trigger the name of the child who sleeps
there, even if absent.
This suggests the child understands both names but lacks the
grammar to combine them.
Additional Notes:
The text emphasizes the one-word stage as a stepping stone
towards more complex language.
It highlights the importance of understanding children's
intentions behind their utterances.
It acknowledges the individual variation in language
development and the need for realistic expectations.
Telegraphic Speech
Additional Notes:
The author emphasizes the child's active role in constructing
language, suggesting a creative and exploratory approach to
learning.
The text highlights the limitations of adult intervention,
suggesting that children learn best through natural interaction
and independent exploration.
The focus on wordplay and non-imitative utterances provides
insights into the child's internal processes and how they build
their linguistic repertoire.