Early Communication
What is the term for speech directed at infants that uses exaggerated pitch and slower tempo?
Infant-Directed Speech
What is the smallest unit of sound that can distinguish meaning in a language?
Phoneme
What does fast mapping allow children to do?
Link a word to its referent after minimal exposure
What is conceptual vocabulary in bilingual children?
Total known concepts across both languages
What does the MacArthur-Bates CDI measure?
Vocabulary and communicative behaviors via caregiver report
What does joint attention refer to in infant-caregiver interaction?
Shared focus on the same object or event
What is cluster reduction in child phonology?
Simplifying consonant blends, e.g., “poon” for “spoon”
What is overextension in early word use?
Using a word too broadly, e.g., calling all animals “dog”
How does bilingualism affect metalinguistic awareness?
Enhances reflection on language structure and ambiguity
What is the Headturn Preference Procedure used for?
Studying infant listening preferences
At what age do infants typically begin canonical babbling?
Around 6 months
Name two early-acquired consonants typically mastered by age 3.
/p/, /m/, /n/, /w/, /h/ — any two
What is the difference between comprehension and production in vocabulary development?
Comprehension precedes production; receptive > expressive vocabulary
What does cross-linguistic variation refer to?
Differences in language structure and acquisition across cultures
What does the LWL method track in infants?
Processing speed via eye movements
What is a protoword, and how does it differ from a conventional word?
A consistent, meaningful vocalization unique to the child; not standardized
What does the term “phonotactics” refer to?
Rules governing permissible sound sequences in a language
What is morphological decomposition, and why is it important?
Breaking words into meaningful parts; supports reading and vocabulary growth
How do bilingual children’s phonological patterns compare to monolingual peers?
Accuracy is comparable; some language-specific differences
What does Percent Consonants Correct (PCC) measure?
Articulation accuracy
How does caregiver responsiveness shape infant vocal development?
Encourages mature vocalizations and builds emotional connection
Explain the difference between substitution and assimilation with examples.
Substitution replaces one sound; assimilation changes a sound to match another
How do invented words reflect children’s semantic creativity?
Fill lexical gaps using simplicity, transparency, and productivity
What factors influence vocabulary development in bilingual children?
Input quality, SES, balance between languages, instructional support
Name two standardized tools used to assess early language development.
Language Development Survey, CSBS, CDI — any two