Adults Contribute to Children's Word Learning in a Number of Ways

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The Answer is Children contribute to their word learning in several ways. One way is through their natural curiosity and desire to understand the world around them. Children are constantly asking questions and seeking out new information, which helps them to learn the meanings of new words. Additionally, children often use context clues and their existing knowledge to make educated guesses about the meanings of unfamiliar words. This process of inferring meaning helps children to expand their vocabulary and understand the nuances of language.

There are at least three assumptions that children make about what new words must mean. First, children often assume that new words are related to familiar words or concepts. For example, if a child hears the word "bicycle" for the first time, they may assume that it has something to do with riding or transportation. Second, children may assume that new words are related to the context in which they are used. If a child hears the word "splash" while playing in the water, they may assume that it has something to do with water or getting wet. Finally, children may assume that new words are related to the actions or objects they are associated with. For example, if a child hears the word "hammer" while watching someone build something, they may assume that it has something to do with building or construction.

Overall, children play an active role in their own word learning by making assumptions about the meanings of new words and using their natural curiosity and existing knowledge to expand their vocabulary.

Adults Contribute to Children's Word Learning in a Number of Ways

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