"An excellent selection of the classic readings in the science of language development, one that I have
dearly missed until now. It is a perfect set of background readings for students and researchers interested in
the intellectual roots of the field."
--Steven Pinker, Harvard University, and author of The Language Instinct and Words and Rules: The Ingredients
of Language
"A well-chosen treasure-house of key readings. They provide a superb grounding for anyone studying child language."
-- Jean Aitchison, University of Oxford
"This reader is a great addition to the field, bringing together some of the classic literature that has stimulated
debate on the nature of language acquisition for years. Its depth and breadth, in both philosophical and linguistic
approaches to the problem, ensure that this volume will soon be a classic itself."
--Katherine Demuth, Brown University
"An excellent collection of classic works, highlighting contributions taking a linguistic approach to the
subject of language acquisition."
--Diane Lillo-Martin, University of Connecticut
Submitted By Publisher, June, 2004
Summary
First Language Acquisition: The Essential Readings is a collection of pioneering classics that provide a framework
for understanding current work in each of the basic areas of language acquisition: morphology, phonology, syntax,
semantics, and pragmatics.
Collects classic works that provide the foundation for current research in the field of first language acquisition.
Includes selections from Noam Chomsky, Jean Piaget, Eric Lenneberg and Roman Jakobson, as well as others who
contributed groundbreaking discoveries, insights, concepts, and methods.
Presents framework for understanding current work in each of the basic areas of language acquisition: morphology,
phonology, syntax, semantics, and pragmatics.
Provides valuable resource for students and scholars of language acquisition, cognitive development, and cognitive
science.
Table of Contents
Part I: Theory of Language Acquisition
Part II: The Nature-Nurture Controversies
Part III: Areas of Language Knowledge
