Language development in ASL parallels the development of spoken languages.

Language development in ASL parallels the development of spoken languages.

• A. True
• B. False
• C. Depends on the learner
• D. Not enough information

Answer: (A)

Language development follows a similar progression in any natural language, and ASL shows that same pattern. Children learning ASL go through preregistered stages just like those learning spoken languages: early communicative intent and manual babbling, then first signs, followed by two-sign combinations, and later more complex syntax and grammar with expanding vocabulary. The signs use a distinct phonology based on handshape, movement, location, and facial expressions, but this difference in modality doesn’t alter the overall developmental sequence. So the statement is true because ASL develops in the same general order as spoken languages, with parallel milestones shaped by exposure and social interaction. While individual pace can vary and exposure matters, the core trajectory remains aligned with spoken-language development.

Language development follows a similar progression in any natural language, and ASL shows that same pattern. Children learning ASL go through preregistered stages just like those learning spoken languages: early communicative intent and manual babbling, then first signs, followed by two-sign combinations, and later more complex syntax and grammar with expanding vocabulary. The signs use a distinct phonology based on handshape, movement, location, and facial expressions, but this difference in modality doesn’t alter the overall developmental sequence. So the statement is true because ASL develops in the same general order as spoken languages, with parallel milestones shaped by exposure and social interaction. While individual pace can vary and exposure matters, the core trajectory remains aligned with spoken-language development.