Understanding Language Acquisition and Development

What makes Kanzi's language acquisition notable among research primates?

• He learned language through formal training only.

• He was the first to show understanding of grammar without training.

• He communicated exclusively through sign language.

• He did not understand the difference between syntax and semantics.

How does the story of Kanzi challenge the traditional view of language as a uniquely human trait?

• By demonstrating the use of complex grammar by a bonobo.

• By showing that language can only be learned through direct instruction.

• By proving that animals cannot understand human language.

• By arguing that language is not important for communication.

What does the ability of Kanzi to request marshmallows suggest about language?

• It disproves the theory of operant conditioning in language learning.

• That language is limited to verbal expression.

• That language can include meaningful sequences of symbols.

• It supports the theory of universal grammar.

What are phonemes?

• Visual symbols used in signed languages.

• The smallest units of language that carry meaning.

• Basic sounds in a language that distinguish meaning.

• Grammatical rules for combining words.

At what age do infants typically start to babble?

• 6 months

• 2 months

• At birth

• 4 months

What role do morphemes play in language?

• They are basic sounds that distinguish meaning.

• They are used exclusively in signed languages.

• They are the smallest units that carry meaning.

• They dictate the grammatical structure of sentences.

What is the significance of the one-word stage in language development?

• Children begin to use complete sentences.

• It marks the beginning of the ability to understand grammar.

• Babbling transitions to clear speech.

• Children start to understand that sounds have specific meanings.

What does the two-word stage of language development signify?

• The end of the babbling phase.

• The use of telegraphic speech, using mostly nouns and verbs.

• The beginning of grammatical rule understanding.

• The ability to form complete sentences.

What is the significance of receptive language in infants?

• It marks the start of the babbling phase.

• It signifies the ability to speak.

• It indicates the beginning of understanding spoken language.

• It is the stage where infants learn to write.

According to Skinner, how do children learn language?

• By imitating adult speech.

• By understanding universal grammar.

• Through innate ability only.

• Through reinforcement and association.