Unique Aspects of Human Language
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Questions and Answers

What distinguishes human language from other forms of communication found in the animal kingdom?

  • The use of gestures exclusively
  • The ability to use informative signals
  • The presence of intentional communicative signals (correct)
  • The use of vocal sounds only

    • Which type of signal is characterized by unintentional communication?

  • Symbolic signals
  • Informative signals (correct)
  • Intentional signals
  • Communicative signals

    • In what way does human language exhibit special properties over animal communication systems?

  • It allows for the expression of abstract concepts (correct)
  • It relies solely on vocalization
  • It includes several dialects based on regions
  • It is purely instinctual and does not require learning

    • What is a defining feature of communicative signals in human language?

    <p>They are used deliberately to convey messages</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes the significance of language in distinguishing humans from other animals?

    <p>Language is a unique system for intentional communication</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic of animal communicative signals is highlighted?

    <p>They are produced instinctively.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What outcome can be expected for an infant adopted by English speakers in the U.S.?

    <p>The infant will speak English.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best describes innate behavior in animals?

    <p>It is consistent across various species.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does language acquisition in infants relate to their environment?

    <p>Language is primarily learned when exposed to it.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following reflects a misunderstanding about animal communication?

    <p>Animal signals are exclusively verbal.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does duality refer to in the context of human language?

    <p>The two distinct layers or levels of language structure.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which aspect of language is influenced by duality?

    <p>The phonetics and phonology.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does duality enhance our understanding of language?

    <p>By separating language into structural and functional components.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements about duality is true?

    <p>It involves both sound production and the meaning conveyed.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What might be a consequence of understanding duality in language?

    <p>Gaining insights into language evolution and change.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does Herbert Terrace argue about the behavior of chimpanzees in research settings?

    <p>They produce signs only as a response to human demands.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary criticism that Terrace has about research involving chimpanzee sign language?

    <p>Researchers misinterpret the animals' responses as communicative engagement.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    According to Terrace, what do trained animals fail to do when they produce signs in response to cues?

    <p>Understand the meaning of the words associated with the sounds.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What aspect of chimpanzee sign production does Terrace believe is often misrepresented?

    <p>Their interaction with human researchers as conversational participants.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What mechanism does Terrace attribute to the sign production in chimpanzees?

    <p>Training to respond to specific cues or stimuli.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does arbitrariness in language refer to?

    <p>The absence of any relationship between linguistic forms and their meanings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement best exemplifies the property of arbitrariness in language?

    <p>Different languages use different words for the same object.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it said that animal communication focuses on the 'here and now'?

    <p>Animal communication is limited to immediate situations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In what way is human language unique compared to animal communication?

    <p>Human language can express complex and abstract ideas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What fundamental aspect does arbitrariness challenge in language?

    <p>The idea that words should always have universal meanings.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Unique Aspects of Human Language

    • Establishes a major distinction between humans and other animals.
    • Comprises informative signals (e.g., body language) and communicative signals (intentional messages).

    Key Properties of Human Language

    • Human language differs from animal communication due to its complexity and abstraction.
    • Animal communication often relates to immediate contexts (“here and now”).

    Arbitrariness

    • No inherent connection exists between words (linguistic forms) and their meanings; this relationship is arbitrary.
    • Unlike humans, animals produce signals instinctively, not flexibly.

    Language Acquisition

    • A child's language environment shapes linguistic ability, as shown by an infant adopted by English speakers who will speak English regardless of biological heritage.

    Duality

    • Refers to two levels of language: the pronunciation of sounds and the meanings they convey.

    Controversy in Animal Communication Research

    • Psychologist Herbert Terrace argued that chimpanzees mimic signs without true understanding of language.
    • Claims researchers misinterpret chimpanzee behavior as conversational participation when it is merely conditioned responses.

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    Lecture 1 Chapter 2 Animals and Human Language - PDF

    Description

    Explore the distinctive features that set human language apart from animal communication. This quiz delves into topics such as arbitrariness, duality, and language acquisition, highlighting the complexity and significance of human linguistic abilities. Test your knowledge on how these characteristics differentiate us from the animal kingdom.

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