Nativistic theory: language development is determined from within the child; language is innate¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The paper presents the nativistic theory, associated with Lenneberg (1967) and McNeill (1966), arguing that language development is determined from within the child rather than by external factors such as imitation or training. The child is born with a propensity for language, and the paper cites supporting evidence including the universality of the developmental sequence and universal characteristics of languages. Lenneberg is quoted arguing that 'All languages are based on the same universal principles of semantics, syntax, and phonology.'

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• The anatomic and physiological features the paper says only man among all species possesses for sustained speech activities

Constraints¶

• The paper notes the pace of acquisition may vary, though the sequence appears the same for all people

Target Learners¶

• Young children between the ages of about one to eight or nine years

Target Learning Objectives¶

• Native language acquisition, particularly grammar or syntax

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• Behavioristic theory: children learn language through imitation of those around them, supported by models and reinforcement
• Cognitive theory: children are born with processing abilities and learn language by forming and testing hypotheses and rules
• Language Acquisition Theory

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Butler, Lester G. (1973). Language Acquisition of Young Children: Major Theories and Sequences. https://eric.ed.gov/?id=ED094403