Question

Which of the following is NOT one of Chomsky’s arguments for the existence of a language acquisition device? A. All human languages have common features B. Children learn words and grammar incredibly fast C. Children learn syntax through reinforcement D. Children create new words and phrases they have never heard before Reset Selection

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Children learn syntax through reinforcement

Explanation:

The language acquisition device, a part of Noam Chomsky's nativist theory of language, is described as a hypothetical mental capacity that allows a child to acquire and produce language. Chomsky used it as the explanation of children's extraordinary ability to learn language and their inherent understanding of grammar and syntax. All human languages have some common features, despite how similar they may sound at first, and Chomsky uses that fact as one of the points in his theory. The theory revolves around children's ability to learn words and grammar fast, so the statement B is correct as well. Besides that, children do not only reproduce words and phrases they have heard before but create their own based on the experience they have had with the language they are learning. Statement C is incorrect, as children do not learn syntax through reinforcement but on their own by interacting with the language.