The Development of Language: A Comprehensive Guide to Language Acquisition

By Jean Berko Gleason and Nan Bernstein Ratner, this renowned textbook has been updated to its tenth edition, available from Plural Publishing. This authoritative resource provides an unbiased and comprehensive understanding of language acquisition, making it an essential read for speech-language pathologists, educators, clinicians, and professionals in related fields.

A Multidisciplinary Approach to Language Development

The authors, leading experts in their fields, present a multidisciplinary approach to language development, covering a range of topics including:

• The roots of language learning in infancy
• Phonology and its role in language development
• Syntax and grammar acquisition
• Word learning and vocabulary expansion
• Bilingualism and multilingualism
• Pragmatics and language in context
• Literacy and language skills
• Atypical language development and language disorders

Key Features of This Textbook

Designed to facilitate learning and understanding, this textbook includes:

• Clear and concise writing by experts in the field
• Learning objectives to guide students through each chapter
• Visual aids, video links, and summaries to enhance comprehension
• Suggested projects to extend students’ understanding and application of key concepts
• A comprehensive Glossary of key terms with definitions

A Focus on Multilingual and Multicultural Language Acquisition

This textbook places a strong emphasis on language development in children learning languages other than, or in addition to, English, as well as children with risk factors for language delay or disorder. The authors’ multilingual and multicultural approach ensures that readers gain a deeper understanding of language acquisition in diverse contexts.

New to the Tenth Edition

This updated edition features:

• A restructured chapter organization to streamline information
• In-depth coverage of concepts that are frequently more challenging for students to master
• Updated references to new research and the current literature
• New and updated figures and photos to illustrate key concepts
• Coverage of the latest technological advances in basic research and clinical practice in child language

Ancillary Materials and Resources

PluralPlus Online Ancillary Materials offer additional resources for instructors and students, including:

• PowerPoint lecture slides and video links for instructors
• An Instructor’s Resource Manual and a test bank for instructors
• Video links and eFlashcards for students

Publisher: Plural Publishing Inc. (December 27, 2022)

Language: English

Pages: 444

ISBN-10: 1635504260

ISBN-13: 978-1635504262