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The Power of Language

The Power of Language. How did humans learn to speak? . Our ancestors evolved over millions of years As early humans evolved, the brain grew in size and complexity Anatomical evolution allowed the larynx (voice box), the hyoid bone, and the jaw muscles to produce articulate speech.

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The Power of Language

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  1. The Power of Language

  2. How did humans learn to speak? • Our ancestors evolved over millions of years • As early humans evolved, the brain grew in size and complexity • Anatomical evolution allowed the larynx (voice box), the hyoid bone, and the jaw muscles to produce articulate speech

  3. Spoken Language • Part of the brain that controls speech production is called Broca’sarea • This part of the brain is more developed in humans than in other primates • Language makes possible cultural memory (generation to generation)

  4. Definition: LANGUAGE: a sophisticated communication system that includes vocabulary, or lexicon as well as a set of rules or grammar outlining its proper use

  5. Some social scientists say that we learn language • Ivan Pavlov said that “Classic Conditioning” trains us to learn language • B.F. Skinner said that positive reinforcement teaches children how to speak

  6. Linguist Noam Chomsky: Universal Grammar • Chomsky says human language uses universal grammar • Learning to speak is better described as the unfolding of a genetic program in the brain: language is innately acquired • Our brains’ are wired for language

  7. Definition: Universal Grammar: Noam Chomsky’s theory that all the world’s languages share a similar underlying structure

  8. Body Language • Non-verbal communication can be as revealing as speech or written language • Facial expressions and gestures convey powerful messages • (Emoticons are an attempt to include body language in e-texts) 

  9. What might these mean?

  10. What might these mean?

  11. Definition: BODY LANGUAGE: the means of communicating information and attitudes in a non-verbal manner

  12. How Humans Communicate

  13. New Languages and Technology • Current trend is toward faster and more efficient forms of communication • Create a dictionary of (appropriate) textual abbreviations and emoticons • Do you think that teachers should allow students to use “MSN” speak or should we stop degrading our language b4 it is 2 late? Why?

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