Psychologist Dr. Emma White argues that children learn language not through formal instruction but through immersion and social interaction. She notes that children in all cultures acquire language at similar ages without explicit grammar lessons.
Which observation would most directly support White's view about language acquisition?
Grammar textbooks are used in schools worldwide
Deaf children raised with signing parents acquire sign language at the same developmental stages as hearing children acquire spoken language, while deaf children without signing exposure show significant language delays
Some languages are more complex than others
Adults can learn second languages through classroom instruction
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the best answer. Shows immersion (signing exposure) is crucial—without it, language is delayed.
- Context clues: White claims "immersion and social interaction" drive acquisition.
- Evidence evaluation: Same development with immersion; delays without it. Proves exposure is key.
- Verify: Natural experiment comparing exposed vs non-exposed children.
💡 Strategy: "Immersion > instruction" claims need evidence showing immersion's necessity.
Choice A is incorrect because textbook existence doesn't disprove the immersion theory. Choice C is incorrect because language complexity doesn't address acquisition method. Choice D is incorrect because adult classroom learning is different from child acquisition.