Main description:

''Introduction to Language Development, Second Edition'' offers a highly accessible introduction to the complexities of language development. The textbook is designed for use in language acquisition courses in undergraduate and graduate speech-language pathology programs to facilitate both teaching and learning. Complex terminology and theories are explained through definitions and examples to assure that students are able to grasp the content. Within the second edition of this text, students are presented with language factors -- syntax, semantics, phonology, morphology, and pragmatics -- as well as the cognitive abilities that underlie language development. Multilingual and multicultural differences are explored throughout. Other highlights include:
*Within each chapter, case studies, chapter objectives, and study questions are provided to support students' understanding of the main points
*Case studies allow instructors to involve students more fully in classroom discussion, along with developing their critical thinking and problem solving skills
*Chapter objectives allow students to understand the scope and goals of the chapter
*Study questions allow instructors to engage students in discussions of the material and assure students grasp and retain the information
*Tables and figures provide examples and evidence that elaborate and clarify the information presented
*A comprehensive glossary of key words in each chapter helps students locate the definitions of key terms

New to this edition:
*A PluralPlus companion website with multiple choice questions that assess students' knowledge of the content in each chapter and PowerPoint lecture slides for instructors to present material from each chapter
*Updated to reflect current research throughout
*Expanded focus on evidence-based practice
*Improved readability through the use of boxes, explanations, and definitions
*A greater number of figures and tables for deeper comprehension

Contents:

Preface. Acknowledgments. Contributors. Chapter 1. An Introduction to Language Acquisition, Sandra Levey. Chapter 2. An Introduction to the Theories of Language Development, Sandra Levey. Chapter 3. The Brain and Cognitive, Speech, and Language Development, Denise Cruz and Sandra Levey. Chapter 4. Infant and Toddler Language Development, Sandra Levey. Chapter 5. Preschool Language Development, Diana Almodovar and Sandra Levey. Chapter 6. Language Development in Middle and Late Childhood and Adolescence, Maria R. Brea-Spahn and Sandra Levey. Chapter 7. The Development of Literacy Skills, Sylvia F. Diehl. Chapter 8. Bilingual Children's Language Development: Assessment and Intervention, Brian A. Goldstein. Chapter 9. Language Development and Hearing, Brian J. Fligor and Sandra Levey. Glossary. Index.