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Module 4: Introduction to Language Development
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Use the readings, videos, and the supplemental resources in this guide to complete the
study focus questions below.
**TIP – If you plan to print the notebook out and fill it in by hand, you can add spaces in
the charts for your notes beforehand.
After engaging with this module, you should be able to do the following:
Explain Chomsky’s theory on language development.
Explain how Skinner’s operant conditioning theory influences language development.
Explain Vygotsky’s social approach to language development.
Identify appropriate language development expectations according to language
development theory.
Milestone 1: Explain Chomsky’s Theory on Language Development
Language Acquisition Universal Grammar
Device
Study Tip: Try to consider that Chomsky is a LAD (Language Acquisition Device).
Instructions: Use the box below to summarize Chomsky’s Theory on Language Development.
Summary
Video Review Chomsky’s Theory of Language Development
Milestone 2: Explain how Skinner’s Operant Conditioning Theory influences language
development.
Motivating Discriminative Response Reinforcing Stimuli
operations Stimuli
Skinner also believed that children learn language through 3 key processes:
Imitating
Prompting
Shaping
Video Review Skinner’s Theory of Language Development
Milestone 3: Explain Vygotsky’s social approach to language development.
According to Vygotsky, children learn through social interactions with others. As such, how
might a teacher use Vygotsky’s theory to support their student’s language and cognitive skills
(consider: social interaction, scaffolding, ZPD, and cultural context).
Video Review Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Approach
Milestone 4: Identify appropriate language development expectations according to language
development theory.
Stage Language Development Expectations
Babbling (6-8 months)
Holophrastic (9- 18
months)
Two-word (18-24
months)
Telegraphic (24-30
months)
Graphic Organizer Stages of Language Development
Slide Review Language Development
Module Key Terms
Instructions: Be sure you can define, explain and provide examples for the following terms
Chomsky Skinner Vygotsky
Language Acquisition Device Motivating Operations Zone of Proximal Development
Universal Grammar Discriminative Stimuli Social Interactions
Response Scaffolding
Reinforcing Stimuli Cultural Context
Imitating
Prompting
Shaping
Complete the Module 4 Practice Questions