CLAD Theories of Language Acquisition 2

Question 1

Which theorist proposed the concept of the 'Language Acquisition Device' (LAD) as an innate mental structure?

Accepted Answer

Noam Chomsky

Answer

Noam Chomsky proposed the LAD, an innate neurological mechanism that enables children to acquire language universally.

Question 2

In Krashen's Input Hypothesis, the formula 'i+1' refers to:

Accepted Answer

Comprehensible input that is slightly beyond the learner's current competence

Answer

The 'i+1' formula means providing input just slightly above the learner's current level of competence to promote acquisition.

Question 3

The behaviorist view of language acquisition, associated with Skinner, holds that children learn language primarily through:

Accepted Answer

Imitation, reinforcement, and habit formation

Answer

Behaviorism attributes language learning to stimulus-response patterns where correct language use is reinforced.

Question 4

Vygotsky's sociocultural theory emphasizes which concept as central to language development?

Accepted Answer

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

Answer

Vygotsky's ZPD describes the gap between what a learner can do independently and what they can achieve with expert guidance.

Question 5

According to Krashen's Affective Filter Hypothesis, a high affective filter results in:

Accepted Answer

A mental block that prevents input from reaching the language acquisition device

Answer

A high affective filter, caused by anxiety or low self-confidence, acts as a mental barrier that blocks comprehensible input from being acquired.

CLAD Practice Test