REFLECTION 3

This week you told us about “first language acqusition” and we listened you
with great pleasure. :) really!

What i learned from this lesson, how children’s language world is according
to behavioristics,nativists and functionalists. First of all, behavioristics claim
that we are born with the brain which is empty- tabularasa. With experience
or input,we learn and learn more,our knowledge is enhanced. One of the
most important pioneer of this approach was Skinner. He expressed his own
theory, operant conditioning. In some learning it can be useful. I also learned
that,this is really important point, ‘imitation’ is an important component of
FLA. Secondly, according to the nativist approach,language is innately
determined that we are born with a genetic capacitiy, LAD. Chomsky believed
the existence of innate properties of language. According to him this innate
knowledge is embodied in a ‘little black box’. So, i infered from that Chomsky
vs. Skinner.  Nativists also claim that child language is a legitimate system in
its own right. Finally, functional approaches support social interaction for first
language acqusition.It is commonly between mother-child. Children know
and learn with talking others.

I had difficullty in figuring out what mediation theory is. And i am also
complicated about ‘universal grammar’.I suppose i need to focus more on
these points.

I will use this three approaches for my students with some different ways.
For instance, i will reinforce the knowledge to my little students as well as i
can, with behavioristic approach. But mostly i’ll use Chomsky’s theory and
LAD. I learned this week that the child’s language at any stage is systematic so
by knowing that i try to reinforced the knowledge with fun. for example i
teach them songs or games to make shape their language. I do emphaty in my
classes with my students. I will also always be in interaction with my
students in the lessons and i suggest them watching films, reading or chatting
in their environment to make them get input. Because it is important
according to functional approaches.

Ayse
TURGAY