Which model of language acquisition suggests that certain words and patterns produce activities in the external world?

Prepare for the CTEL 1 - Language and Language Development Test. Study with flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each question. Get ready to succeed!

The behaviorist model of language acquisition posits that language learning occurs through interaction with the environment and is heavily influenced by external stimuli and reinforcements. This model emphasizes the role of observable behaviors and posits that certain words and language patterns lead to specific responses or activities in the external world. For instance, when a child hears the word "ball" and sees a ball, the association formed between the word and the object can result in the child reaching for or pointing to the ball, demonstrating the connection between language and the physical environment.

In this model, language is acquired through imitation, reinforcement, and conditioning, where repeated exposure to certain words and phrases leads to the development of language skills. This behaviorist approach is rooted in the idea that actions and behaviors can be influenced and modified through reinforcement, making external activities a key aspect of language development.

While other models like the nativist and interactionist offer different perspectives, they focus more on inherent abilities or the importance of social interaction in language learning rather than on the specific external activities triggered by language usage. The constructivist model emphasizes building knowledge through experience and social context, further distinguishing it from the behaviorist emphasis on observable behavior and external stimuli.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy