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Introduction to Language Development
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Introduction to Language Development



August 2013 | 496 pages | SAGE Publications, Inc

There are between 4,000 and 6,000 languages remaining in the world and the characteristics of these languages vary widely. How could an infant born today master any language in the world, regardless of the language’s characteristics?

Shelia M. Kennison answers this question through a comprehensive introduction to language development, taking a unique perspective that spans the period before birth through old age. The text offers in-depth discussions on key topics, including: the biological basis of language, perceptual development, grammatical development, development of lexical knowledge, social aspects of language, bilingualism, the effect of language on thought, cognitive processing in language production and comprehension, language-related delays and disorders, and language late in life.




 
CHAPTER 1 LANGUAGE AND LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
 
CHAPTER 2 BIOLOGICAL BASIS OF LANGUAGE
 
CHAPTER 3 THE FIRST 24 MONTHS
 
CHAPTER 4 GRAMMATICAL DEVELOPMENT
 
CHAPTER 5 THE LEXICON
 
CHAPTER 6 SOCIAL ASPECTS OF LANGUAGE
 
CHAPTER 7 LIFE WITH MORE THAN ONE LANGUAGE
 
CHAPTER 8 LANGUAGE AND THOUGHT
 
CHAPTER 9 PLANNING SPEECH FROM THOUGHT TO ARTICULATION
 
CHAPTER 10 LANGUAGE COMPREHENSION
 
CHAPTER 11 LANGUAGE DURING THE SCHOOL YEARS
 
CHAPTER 12 LANGUAGE ACROSS THE LIFESPAN

Important tool for researching early language development

Mrs Terrie A Blaszczyk
Education Department, Roehampton University
May 12, 2016

This is really useful book that extend and encourage students' knowledge in understanding language and literacy in young age.

Mrs Svetlana Shivacheva
University Centre Croydon, Croydon College
April 21, 2015

The chapter on Grammar acquisition in young children is of particular interest to me in preparing and updating Grammar sessions for PGCE and BA year 2 Core English Curriculum. I appreciate the fact that all concepts touched in grammar are well supported by research references. I also found interesting and informative is the chapter on Life in more than one languages. I am sure students wanting to gain an insight into their English as an additional Language children in the primary classroom would find it extremely informative.

Mrs Kulwinder Maude
School of Education, Kingston University
January 14, 2015

Although the level of the book would be more suitable for degree level students, the first three chapters of the book 1. language and language development, 2. biological basis of language and 3 the first 24 months are particularly suitable for the Early Years course that I teach. I will be recommending that as recommended reading, particularly for the more able students on the course who will be using additional resources to supplement their course book to assist with assignments.

Mrs Cheryl Clarke
Childhood Studies LX11, Colchester Institute
August 14, 2014

An in-depth text that covers all aspects of language development. A very useful guide for teacher trainees and childhood studies students.

Mrs Sharron Galley
Centre for Childhood Studies, Stockport College
May 27, 2014

This book should be considered as an excellent textbook at undergraduate level. It the process of language evolution at different ages. I was looking for such book. I highly recommend this title.

Mr AQM Basher
English Language Center, Jazan University
April 29, 2014

This would be ideal for those studying language development as a single subject. For teacher training it would be useful for additional reading for the student's own interest.

Mrs Sue Fraser
School of Education, Social Work &, Dundee University
February 18, 2014
Key features
KEY FEATURES:

  • Comprehensive and up-to-date coverage of language development, balanced coverage of both basic and applied research, and a strong emphasis on the diversity of human languages throughout
  • Examples that illustrate the diversity of human languages, noteworthy research discoveries, and case histories of extraordinary individuals
  • Diversity of Human Language boxes in every chapter that address topics such as sign language, the Chinese writing system, and the grammar of Fulani (a language in Africa), among others
  • Research Discovery boxes in every chapter that provide accessible descriptions of noteworthy research studies
  • Additional pedagogical features in each chapter that include key terms, review questions, suggested projects, and recommended readings and videos

Sample Materials & Chapters

Chapter 7

Chapter 3


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