Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
A built-in timetable refers to a theory that suggests children learn language primarily through a predetermined schedule of development, which is biologically programmed.
The critical period is the specific time during childhood when language acquisition is believed to be most optimal.
Universal Grammar: Universal grammar refers to the innate linguistic knowledge or rules that all humans possess, which helps facilitate language learning.
The language acquisition device is an innate mental capacity proposed by Chomsky that enables children to acquire grammar and language rules effortlessly.