Language-Learning Outline

Abstract

The outline can be used as a descriptive and prescriptive guide for the teacher in determining the child's lowest levels of consistently successful functioning so that language-learning at the higher levels can be reinforced. Since this is a process approach, it is not dependent upon any particular content area and can be adapted for use in any language-learning situation. The Language-Learning Outline describes seven variables of language-learning processes: (A) Relations between self and environment, (B) Sensory channel for communication, (C) The abstraction process, (D) The size and extent of the unit, (E) The symbolic form of the unit, (F) Movement in space, and (G) Memory. Relationships between the various process categories are arbitrary and depend upon situational variables. Within each category there are three levels, ranging from infant development to full language maturity.