Language and Cognition Flashcards

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Language

Back

A system of spoken, written, or signed symbols used to communicate thoughts and feelings.

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Phonemes

Back

The smallest units of sound in a language (e.g., the “b” in “bat”).

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Morphemes

Back

The smallest units of meaning in a language (e.g., “un-” or “-ing”).

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Syntax

Back

The rules for combining words into grammatically correct sentences.

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Semantics

Back

The meaning of words and sentences.

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Babbling Stage

Back

The stage in infant development when babies produce speech-like but meaningless sounds.

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One-Word Stage

Back

When a child speaks mostly in single words (around age 1).

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Two-Word Stage

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When a child begins to use two-word combinations (around age 2).

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Telegraphic Speech

Back

Early speech that sounds like a telegram: short and to the point (e.g., “want juice”).

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Language Acquisition Device

Back

Noam Chomsky’s idea that humans are born with a built-in ability to learn language.