Overview

Language development involves the progression of communication abilities from infancy through adulthood. It includes phonological, syntactic, semantic, and pragmatic skills, and is influenced by both biological and environmental factors.

Key Themes and Concepts

• Vocalization and Sound: Early communication includes cooing, babbling, and eventually recognizable words. Infants are sensitive to pitch and rhythm from birth.
• Development of Syntax: Syntax refers to sentence structure. Children's speech becomes increasingly complex between ages 2–5, following consistent developmental sequences.
• Semantic Development: Refers to vocabulary growth and word meaning. Children learn through labeling, inference, and social interaction.
• Pragmatics: The social rules of language use—taking turns, staying on topic, and adjusting language to context. These skills are influenced by cultural norms.
• Language and Thought: Language both reflects and shapes thinking. Vygotsky emphasized private speech as key to problem-solving and self-regulation.
• Bilingualism: Children exposed to two languages can achieve fluency in both. Bilingualism may enhance cognitive flexibility, metalinguistic awareness, and executive control.
• Environmental, Cultural, and Genetic Influences: Parental speech, reading, and socioeconomic status impact early language. Genetic conditions and disorders (e.g., specific language impairment) also play a role.

Quick Tip

Know the milestones of language development and the distinction between syntax, semantics, and pragmatics. CLEP questions may include examples of bilingualism or ask about the role of social interaction in language acquisition.