Text 1: Neuroscientist Dr. James Liu studies bilingualism. "Speaking multiple languages enhances cognitive flexibility and delays dementia onset," Liu reports. "The mental exercise of switching between languages strengthens executive function."
Text 2: Developmental psychologist Dr. Karen West studies early language acquisition. "Children learning multiple languages simultaneously may show initial vocabulary delays," West notes. "However, these gaps typically close by elementary school, and bilingual children often excel later."
How would West most likely characterize Liu's claims about bilingualism?
As completely false and unsupported
As accurate regarding long-term benefits while requiring short-term context
As irrelevant to child development
As based on outdated research methods
Correct Answer: B
Choice B is the correct answer. West doesn't dispute Liu's long-term benefits but adds context about short-term delays. She'd agree with Liu while noting the pattern isn't immediately linear.
- Evidence: West says gaps "close by elementary school" and children "excel later."
- Reasoning: She confirms long-term benefits while adding early-stage nuance.
- Conclusion: West would support Liu's claims with developmental qualifications.
Choice A is incorrect because West supports bilingual benefits. Choice C is incorrect because West studies exactly this topic. Choice D is incorrect because methodology isn't questioned.