The Development of Language

This bestselling textbook focuses on language acquisition throughout the lifespan and examines language development using biological, social, and cultural contexts, while also investigating individual differences, atypical development, literacy, and language development in adults.

This classic text now in its tenth edition and now available from Plural Publishing, The Development of Language continues its focus on language acquisition in an unbiased, authoritative, and comprehensive way. Written by leading experts known for their research in the areas they discuss, this book has a multidisciplinary approach, and demonstrates the relevance of typical language development to speech-language pathologists, educators, clinicians, and those in other professions. Topics include the roots of language learning in infancy, phonology, syntax/grammar, word learning, bilingualism, pragmatics, literacy, atypical language development, and more. This book provides the reader with an authoritative text that includes important and useful concepts and research findings. Emphasis is placed on language development in children who are learning languages other than, or in addition to, English, as well as children with risk factors for language delay or disorder. The text leads the reader through every stage of development—the early months before children begin to speak, the preschool and school years, and adolescence as children achieve mastery of adult-like language skills. Key FeaturesChapter pedagogy includes learning objectives, visual aids, video links, summaries, and suggested projects to extend students’ understanding and application of text conceptsKey terms are highlighted in the text with definitions provided in a GlossaryClear and concise writing by authors who are known for their research in the subject area and their ability to explain complex topics to a broad audienceA multilingual and multicultural focus on acquisition in languages other than English, on non-mainstream varieties of English and on children learning two or more languages simultaneously (bilingualism), as well as children with developmental communication disordersNew to the Tenth EditionRestructure of chapters to streamline informationGreater in-depth coverage of concepts that are frequently more difficult for students to master Updated references to new research and the current literature References are now at the end of each chapterNew and updated figures and photosCoverage of the latest technological advances in basic research and clinical practice in child languagePluralPlus Online Ancillary MaterialsFor Instructors: PowerPoint lecture slides, video links, and an Instructor's Resource Manual, and a test bank. For Students: Video links and eFlashcards