Concept formation refers to the cognitive process through which children acquire and develop new concepts or mental representations of objects, events, or ideas. It involves recognizing similarities and differences among various stimuli and organizing them into categories or concepts. In relation to concept formation by a child, the correct statement is:

b) There is a set pattern of concept development.

Explanation:

Concept development in children follows a set pattern or sequence, which can be broadly categorized into three stages: the sensorimotor stage, the preoperational stage, and the concrete operational stage. Each stage is characterized by specific cognitive abilities and milestones.

1. Sensorimotor Stage:
During the sensorimotor stage (birth to 2 years), infants acquire concepts through their sensory and motor experiences. They learn to differentiate and categorize objects based on their perceptual features, such as size, shape, color, and texture. For example, they may form the concept of "dog" by recognizing common features across different dogs they encounter.

2. Preoperational Stage:
In the preoperational stage (2 to 7 years), children develop symbolic representation and language skills, enabling them to acquire more abstract concepts. They begin to use words and symbols to represent objects and events that are not immediately present. Concepts become more elaborate and include characteristics beyond sensory features. For instance, they may form the concept of "animal" by considering common features like having fur, being able to move, and being alive.

3. Concrete Operational Stage:
In the concrete operational stage (7 to 11 years), children become capable of more logical and systematic thinking. They can understand the concept of conservation, classify objects based on multiple attributes, and engage in simple deductive reasoning. Their concepts become more hierarchical and organized. For example, they may form the concept of "mammal" by recognizing that it is a broader category that includes animals with fur, milk-producing abilities, and live births.

While there is a general pattern of concept development, it is important to note that individual differences and environmental factors can also influence the pace and progression of concept formation in children. Some children may exhibit advanced concept development at an earlier age, while others may require additional support or experiences to consolidate their understanding.