A student researching language has taken notes:
• Children acquire language naturally through exposure • Critical periods exist for optimal language development • Second language learning becomes harder after puberty • Bilingual brains show enhanced cognitive flexibility • Language shapes how people perceive and categorize the world
The student wants to explain the advantages of early language exposure.
Language shapes how people perceive and categorize the world around them.
Early language exposure takes advantage of critical developmental periods and the brain's natural acquisition ability—becoming bilingual also enhances cognitive flexibility.
Second language learning becomes more difficult after puberty.
Children acquire language naturally through exposure to speech.
Correct Answer: B
Choice B. Critical periods and enhanced cognitive flexibility show early exposure advantages.