Linguistics Quiz

Which of the following most accurately encapsulates the concept of bilingualism in applied linguistics?

• The knowledge of two languages, typically excluding proficiency in writing or comprehension.

• The capacity to engage meaningfully in communication using two distinct linguistic systems.

• A linguistic phenomenon in which one language is fully mastered, while the second remains rudimentary.

Sociolinguistics can best be defined as:

• A discipline that explores how societal structures and cultural contexts influence linguistic forms and functions.

• The historical analysis of language development and etymology.

• A field concerned solely with phonetic changes in isolated speech communities.

Which of the following is a false statement about code-switching?

• It is a very common practice among bilingual and multilingual speakers.

• It happens when starts a sentence in one language and finishes it in another.

• It is a sign of non-proficiency in one of the languages involved.

Which of the following best illustrates intra-sentential code-switching?

• A) I love this song. Voy a ponerla otra vez.

• B) We were walking to the park and de repente it started raining.

• C) He speaks English with his dad. Luego habla español con su abuela.

In the context of national or institutional regulation, language policy can be best described as:

• A framework outlining acceptable grammar and spelling rules for official use.

• A deliberate set of decisions, laws, or norms influencing language use, status, and function within a given community or nation-state.

• A sociopolitical strategy to enforce linguistic purity through education.

A pidgin is …

• A spontaneously evolved code between language groups that matures into a mother tongue.

• A simplified auxiliary language developed out of necessity between speakers lacking a common language, typically without native speakers.

• An artistic language form intentionally created for literary or ritualistic purposes.

Which term refers to the use of a common language by speakers of different native languages in order to communicate with each other?

• Llanito

• Lingua franca.

• Multilingualism.

From a theoretical standpoint, the following statement about language acquisition is true:

• An intuitive, often subconscious internalization of linguistic structures, typically occurring during naturalistic exposure.

• A conscious, methodical mastery of a language's rules through formal education.

• A repetitive process involving imitation, practice, and correction.

According to Krashen, successful language acquisition depends on:

• Frequent correction of learner errors during communication.

• Exposure to comprehensible input, that is, language that is mostly understandable but includes slightly new or challenging elements.

• Immediate and constant speaking practice, regardless of comprehension level.

Who developed the concept of Universal Grammar?

• Noam Chomsky.

• B.F. Skinner.

• Lev Vygotsky.