Overview
This lecture covers the components and development of language, exploring its structure, how humans acquire it, and its relationship with thought.
Components of Language
- Language uses words and rules (grammar) to transmit information between individuals.
- A lexicon is the vocabulary of a language.
- Grammar is the set of rules for conveying meaning using the lexicon.
- Phonemes are basic sound units; different languages have different sets.
- Morphemes are the smallest meaningful language units, formed by combining phonemes.
- Semantics is how meaning is derived from morphemes and words.
- Syntax is how words are organized into sentences.
Language Development
- Language acquisition happens naturally and follows similar patterns across cultures.
- B.F. Skinner proposed language is learned through reinforcement; Chomsky argued for biological predisposition.
- There is a critical period for maximum language acquisition, especially in early childhood.
- Babies show early preference for their mother's language and synchronized facial movements.
- Language development stages:
- 0–3 months: reflexive communication
- 3–8 months: reflexive communication, increased social interest
- 8–13 months: intentional communication, sociability
- 12–18 months: first words
- 18–24 months: simple two-word sentences
- 2–3 years: sentences with three or more words
- 3–5 years: complex sentences, conversations
Special Cases and Phenomena
- Case of Genie: severe language deprivation in childhood led to incomplete grammar mastery despite vocabulary gains.
- Early exposure is critical for full language development.
Language and Thought
- Sapir and Whorf hypothesized that language determines thought (linguistic determinism).
- Some evidence shows language influences how people conceptualize ideas like time and color.
- Linguistic relativity suggests habits in language may encourage habits in thought, but the relationship is debated.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Language — a communication system using words and rules to convey information.
- Lexicon — the vocabulary of a language.
- Grammar — rules for using words to convey meaning.
- Phoneme — the smallest sound unit in a language.
- Morpheme — the smallest meaningful unit in language.
- Semantics — the meaning derived from words and morphemes.
- Syntax — rules for word arrangement in sentences.
- Critical period — an optimal time in early life for acquiring language.
- Overgeneralization — applying language rules too broadly, including exceptions.
- Linguistic determinism — the theory that language determines thought.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review developmental language stages in Table 7.1.
- Consider examples of how language may affect your own thinking or perception.
- Reflect on how different languages express concepts that may not translate directly to English.