Assignment task: Your readings this week were focused on language. You read about theories of language development, how language research is conducted, the impact of isolation on language development, and the impact of a second language. There is much to discuss in this module - almost too much! This discussion will have two parts - one will have you responding to specific prompts, and the other will ask you to theorize and brainstorm. Make sure to watch these videos and read the following article as well.
In your post, please respond to both Parts I and II.
Part I:
- First, explain what it means to acquire a language (see Hoff, chapter 1)?
- Next, Identify two theories of language development that stood out to you and explain them
- How did isolation impact the language abilities of the 'wild child' cases?
- Analyze your theories with regard to how they help explain language acquisition in babies.
Part II:
Think about the research discussed in your readings, and the studies shown in the videos. If you were to conduct a study on language acquisition in babies, which theory would inform your research? What would your research investigate?
In your responses to each other, look to clarify or extend the proposed study of your classmate.