Discontinuity Theory - Language Across the Curriculum

Discontinuity Theory - Language Across the Curriculum - BEd

1. Discontinuity Theory It’s different from us Suresh Babu G Assistant Professor

2. Continuity Theory Discontinuity Theory Theories of evaluation of language

3. Continuity Theory Charles Darwin’s evolution is the basis for continuity Theory. It states that, “ the symbolic noises made by animals to communicate among themselves, slowly and over long period of time, developed into human language”. It points out the similarities between the sounds raised by whales, birds and the sounds raised by human beings.

4. Sign language learning by chimpanzees was subjected to laboratory tests. Studies revealed that after chimpanzees were taught to communicate these signs, they used these signs to communicate among themselves and with their offspring's. Continuity Theory

5. Discontinuity Theory Continuity theory was opposed by Discontinuity theory. Discontinuity theory depicts human language more complex. So there is no possibility of its origin from animals. Language is unique for humankind alone.

6. Noam Chomsky is an eminent linguist defends D iscontinuity Theory. Noam Chomsky suggests the concept of Language Organ or Language Device. Noam Chomsky states that, ‘ some unknown and very special growth might have accidently happened in the human species and gradually developed as a Language Organ or Language Device. Discontinuity Theory

7. Chomsky’s Universal Grammar Theory Neurological system in human brains that supports language acquisition. “ Language Acquisition Device” or LAD. Children are exposed to infinite data and given data LAD produce a finite set of grammar rules.

8. Discontinuity Theory

9. Chomsky believes that Rudiments of language us stored in human brain. Language system is the possession of human brain. There is difference in the language skills of individuals. Language is acquired due to social integrations. Thoughts and language are complementary and supportive to each other.

10. Language areas of Brain

11. Thus…… The focus of Linguistics is how the speakers develop in themselves the abstract abilities to form grammatically correct sentences. When a child continuously listen the spoken language, and the words used, the child learns the rules regarding the language use.