Language: Crash Course Psychology

The video explores language acquisition, focusing on Kanzi, a bonobo who learned language through observation. It discusses the definition of language, its structure, and stages of language development in children. Theories by Skinner and Chomsky on language acquisition are examined, along with the brain's role in language processing. The video concludes with a summary of key concepts and credits.

What makes Kanzi's language learning unique compared to other primates?

• He learned through direct teaching.

• He learned spontaneously through observation.

• He used written symbols to communicate.

• He was trained using sign language.

What is the significance of Kanzi's ability to use symbols?

• It indicates that symbols are not important in communication.

• It proves that language is unique to humans.

• It suggests that apes can also communicate meaningfully.

• It shows that only humans can use symbols.

Which of the following is the smallest unit of sound in a language?

• Phoneme

• Grammar

• Morpheme

• Syntax

What is a morpheme?

• A type of syntax

• A grammatical rule

• A unit of meaning

• A unit of sound

At what age do infants typically start to recognize differences in speech?

• Six months

• Four months

• Two months

• Eight months

According to B.F. Skinner, how do children learn language?

• By genetic predisposition

• Through innate ability

• Through reinforcement and conditioning

• By mimicking adult speech

What does the term 'universal grammar' refer to?

• The unique grammar of each language

• The shared basic elements of all human languages

• The grammar rules of English

• The grammar used in sign language

What is the role of Broca's area in the brain?

• Understanding of grammar

• Production of speech

• Recognition of phonemes

• Comprehension of language

What might happen if Wernicke's area is damaged?

• Loss of ability to produce speech

• Speech becomes nonsensical

• Inability to recognize phonemes

• Loss of ability to write

How does language influence thought according to the video?

• Language only affects verbal communication.

• Language has no impact on thought.

• Language frames ideas and influences thinking.

• Thoughts are independent of language.