EARLY LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT

Teaching develops foundational knowledge for students interested in the topic of language development and communication.

Consistent with the overall objectives of the degree program, after passing the examination, the student should possess:
- knowledge of the main theories concerning language acquisition;
- knowledge of the main issues concerning the development of language skills in children (phonological, lexical, syntactic and morphological development);
- knowledge of the aspects that concern the development of communicative competence (development of communication pragmatics skills);
- knowledge of the main aspects concerning atypical language development.

Knowledge of English language.

Content will be articulated as follows:
- introduction to the study of language development;
- overview of major theories of language acquisition;
- biological bases of language development;
- pre-linguistic development;
- language development (phonological, lexical, morpho-syntactic development);
- development of communication skills (pragmatics of communication, development of conversational skills, sociolinguistic development ...);
- development of comprehension skills;
- bilingualism;
- specific disorders.

Reference texts and any supplements (e.g., articles) will be communicated as the course progresses.

An oral exam will test the knowledge of topics discussed during the lessons and of the course texts and materials. The ability to use critical reasoning, and the quality of language used will also be tested. Constant participation in the class and class activities is strongly recommended. Special situations will have to be discussed directly with the teacher.

The course consists of lectures, class discussions. Active student participation is encouraged.

English

oral