First Language acquisition:

The behaviourist perspective

I.

Complete the definitions below

1. Behaviourism is a psychological theory, according to which the

quantity and...........................................................
.....................................................................................................
2. Imitation is ......................................................... and practice is
....................................................... Both are ................................
......................................................................................................

II.

True or false. Justify

1. Children appear to imitate selectively.
2. Imitation and practice can explain all the forms created by
children.

III.

Is the example above just a case of imitation? Explain.

Child: Mum tale the white rabbit

Mother: Oh dear, you want me to tell you the tale The white
rabbit.
Child: Yes mum tale the tale the white rabbit.