Learning objective

Critique Chomsky’s biological explanation of language acquisition by highlighting that language development is also affected by cultural and social influences, not solely biological factors.

Read the explanation, check the common trap, then practise with flashcards and questions.

Practise this topic Read the exam answer Topic hub

Exam focus

Read the explanation.
Check key terms.
Practise with linked questions.

Cambridge IGCSE PsychologyLanguage development

Study support

Understand this objective

Quick explanation

Critique Chomsky’s biological explanation of language acquisition by highlighting that language development is also affected by cultural and social influences, not solely biological factors

This point belongs to The location and function of language centres in the brain:, especially The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes.
You need to be able to critique Chomsky’s biological explanation of language acquisition by highlighting that language development is also affected by cultural and social influences, not solely biological factors.
The key ideas to know are Justify and Explain.
Use the linked flashcards and practice questions to check recall, then practise applying the idea in an exam-style answer.

Key concepts

JustifyExplain

Why it matters

This objective helps connect The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes to exam-style questions, flashcards, and revision notes for The location and function of language centres in the brain:.

Revision tools

Choose how to practise

Back to topic hub

Flashcards10 linked cards

Flashcard 1 of 10

Press Space to flip, arrows to move

Practice Questions7 linked questions

Question 1 of 7

Choose an answer, get feedback, then move sideways through the set.

0 of 5 attempted

Paper 1 structured question: The location and function of language centres in the brain:

Paper 1Approaches, Issues and Debates1 marks

Description

Language Acquisition Factors

Language acquisition is influenced by both biological and social factors. Chomsky's theory emphasizes innate biological mechanisms, while social interactions and cultural contexts also play a crucial role in language development.

a
Define Define language acquisition.
Your answer
Aim for approximately 1 distinct marking point.
[1]

Revision notestopic notes

Open the full topic revision notes when you are ready to review this objective in context.

Open revision notes

Related learning objectives

Identify the areas in the brain responsible for language, including Broca’s area in the frontal lobe for speech production and Wernicke’s area in the temporal lobe for speech comprehension.
The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes
Explain Chomsky’s theory on how language is acquired biologically, covering concepts such as the language acquisition device (LAD), universal grammar, and the critical period for language learning during early life.
The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes
Define aphasia as a language disorder resulting from brain damage due to injury, stroke, or illness.
The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes
Discuss the biological perspective on language acquisition in relation to different types of aphasia, specifically Broca’s aphasia and Wernicke’s aphasia.
The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes
Present arguments supporting Chomsky’s biological theory of language acquisition, including evidence from studies on sign language acquisition, such as the Senghas study.
The location and function of language centres in the brain: outcomes

Revision hubs

Move back to a broader study route

Cambridge IGCSE Psychology resources