Assignment #6
Pettito & Marentette (1991) Babbling in the manual mode: Evidence for the ontogeny of language
The goal of this assignment is to discuss, in depth, a classic study on children’s language development. You should read the corresponding Pettito & Marentette article and answer the following questions about the study. *Each answer must be put in your own words! If you struggle with doing this, try to rephrase to explain to a roommate or friend (in plain language). Please be as in depth as possible in your responses.
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Answer the following about the methods used.
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What type of study was conducted? 1pt
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Who participated? What were the control and experimental groups? 3pts
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What was their hypothesis (in your own words)? 2pts
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What is the dependent variable? 1pt
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What is the independent variable? 1pt
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What did they find/what were the results? 3pt
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What were 2 consistent patterns, properties, or behaviors observed with both deaf and hearing infants? Be sure to explain it in your own words! 4 pts
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Do you think her results more consistent with domain-general or domain-specific accounts of language? Why? Note, there is no right or wrong answer; both are acceptable depending on your explanation of WHY. 2 pts
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What developmental psychology theory (that we’ve discussed so far in class – think back to the first few weeks and/or the cognitive theories) best fits with this data? Why? 3 pts
I have provided a PDF with all the required reading for this assignment. Please be as in depth as possible in your responses to the questions.