8 Questions
What is the Critical Period Hypothesis for Language?
A theory that suggests there is a limited time period during which it is possible to acquire a language to native-like levels
What evidence supports the Critical Period Hypothesis for Language?
The case of Genie, who was found at age 13 and had not been exposed to linguistic input
What could Genie learn in language training?
How to communicate a message (verbally or nonverbally) and acquire vocabulary
What could Genie not learn in language training?
How to use grammatical words/word parts (e.g. -s, -ed, ing) and complex syntax
What do the cases like Genie suggest about language development after the critical period?
The language centers in the left hemisphere do not develop normally
Why might we hesitate to make strong claims about a critical period for human language based only on cases like Genie?
The case of Genie is an extreme and unique case
What is the main focus of the Critical Period Hypothesis for Language?
The limited developmental time period during which it is possible to acquire a language to native-like levels
What is the role of linguists at UCLA in Genie's language development?
They worked hard to help her learn language
Test your knowledge on the Critical Period Hypothesis for Language and explore the evidence supporting the idea that there is a limited developmental time period for acquiring a language to native-like levels. Learn about Genie, a case study that highlights the effects of isolation on language acquisition.
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