According to some linguists, which of the following statements is true...
Language is a symbolic, rule-governed system, shared by a group of people to
express their thoughts
and feelings. In a child, language development takes place through
language
acquisition
and
language learning
.
Let's understand both terms briefly:
Language acquisition
: - It refers to the
unconscious process of
learning a language
because of the innate capacity of the human brain. - It is
a natural process
whereby children acquire language by observing and repeating what they hear in their native environment. - Language acquisition does not require any formal instruction, children acquire the language without being taught.
- Language acquisition is a natural process so, one does not forget one's native language.
Hence, it could be concluded that
statements a and b are true.
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According to some linguists, which of the following statements is true...
Understanding Language Acquisition vs. Language Learning
Language acquisition and language learning are two distinct processes that describe how individuals develop their linguistic abilities, particularly in their first and additional languages.
Language Acquisition
- Language acquisition refers to the natural and unconscious process of picking up a language, typically occurring in early childhood.
- Children learn their first language by interacting with their environment, absorbing sounds, vocabulary, and grammar without formal instruction.
- This process is often intuitive, allowing children to communicate effectively by mimicking and practicing language in context.
Language Learning
- Language learning, on the other hand, is a deliberate and conscious process often associated with formal education.
- It involves the structured study of language rules, vocabulary, and grammar through textbooks, classes, and exercises.
- Learners actively engage with the material, seeking to understand and apply language concepts.
Why Option A is Correct
- Option 'A' states that both language acquisition is a natural and unconscious process, and language learning is a deliberate and conscious process.
- This aligns with linguistic theories that distinguish between how individuals naturally develop language skills (acquisition) versus how they learn a language through instruction and practice (learning).
- It highlights the innate ability to acquire language as a fundamental human trait, contrasting with the more structured approach of learning additional languages.
In summary, the correct understanding emphasizes that language acquisition is instinctive and unconscious, while language learning is a conscious and structured endeavor.