In class, we discussed how damage to Broca’s Area and Wernicke’s Area result in different kinds of
language impairments. First: describe briefly the kind of impairment seen in each case. Second: explain
briefly why this situation either supports or doesn’t support a localization account of brain function.
-Chapter 13
You were assigned to watch a youtube video about the “wild child” called Genie. Unfortunately, it
appears youtube has taken down that video, but it should still be easy for you to do some basic research
about her. Explain how her situation is relevant to the idea of a critical period for first language
acquisition. Begin by stating what the term “critical period” means.
-Chapter 14
Does the term critical period also apply to second language acquisition? Why or why not? Feel free to
express your personal opinions about this; you are welcome to mention any personal experiences you have
had in order to illustrate your point.
Chapter 15
Look up “Arabic Sign Language” online and tell me two interesting things you learn about it, IN YOUR
OWN WORDS.
-Chapter 17
There is a recurring sound correspondence in the data below, taken from the languages Czech and
Russian. First, describe this correspondence. Hint: where Czech has a certain consonant sound, Russian
has a certain other consonant sound.
Second, explain briefly: What do such correspondences often tell us about two languages?
English meaning: “head” Czech: /hlava/ Russian: /golova/
English meaning: “proud” Czech: /hrdi/ Russian: /gordɪj/
English meaning: “God” Czech: /buh/ Russian: /bog/
English meaning: “much” Czech: /mnoho/ Russian: /mnogo/