EN 204 Midterm Quiz 1

Which of the following best defines language?

• A system of sounds without meaning

• A cognition unique to humans that allows infinite ideas

• A fixed set of memorized utterances

• A learned behavior similar to bird songs

First language acquisition begins:

• At age two

• After birth

• At or before birth

• When a child enters school

Unlike second language learning, first language acquisition:

• Requires systematic instruction

• Relies heavily on correction

• Occurs naturally without explicit teaching

• Is more difficult than second language learning

What is meant by 'positive evidence' in language acquisition?

• Corrections given by adults

• Utterances heard in the environment

• Errors made by children

• Imitation of peers

Why is language acquisition considered effortless for children?

• It requires no cognitive ability

• It happens regardless of environmental input

• It occurs under varied circumstances with limited input

• It is always formally taught

The 'Logical Problem of Language Acquisition' highlights:

• Children's difficulty in imitating adults

• The gap between finite input and infinite linguistic competence

• The inability of children to grasp grammar

• The role of reinforcement in learning

Grammar, as defined in linguistics, is:

• A set of prescriptive rules teachers impose

• A finite system in the brain that allows sentence creation

• A memorized list of acceptable sentences

• Only a written system of language

The sentence 'Dog a old a bone ate' demonstrates:

• Linguistic ambiguity

• Violation of grammatical constraints

• Correct use of universal grammar

• Positive evidence

What role do constraints play in language?

• They encourage linguistic creativity

• They prohibit certain word arrangements universally

• They are rules specific to English only

• They vary unpredictably across languages

Which of the following is an example of linguistic ambiguity?

• 'The garage was where John kept the car.'

• 'Dog a old a bone ate.'

• 'The car that John kept was the one in the garage.'

• 'Children acquire language without explicit teaching.'