LIN1502
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE 2 SEPT 2024
, 2.2 Assignment 2 (2 September 2024)
ASSESSMENT 02
This assessment counts 45% of your year mark. This is a written assessment and
needs to be submitted under Assessment 2 on myUnisa.
Question 1
1.a. What word stage is Dinesh likely to be in, and how old is he? Motivate your
answer with characteristics of that word stage.
Dinesh is likely in the one-word stage, which typically occurs between 12-18 months of
age. This stage is characterized by the use of single words to convey entire ideas or
meanings. Dinesh's use of the word "Mine" indicates that he is likely in this stage because
he is using a single word to express ownership of the toy duck. This is typical of the one-
word stage, where children begin to understand that words represent objects, actions, and
other aspects of their environment. They might not yet be able to form full sentences but
can use single words meaningfully.
Characteristics of the one-word stage:
Single-word utterances: The child uses one word at a time to express a whole idea or
request. For example, "Mine" in the context of the dialogue expresses ownership.
Vocabulary growth: Children at this stage are rapidly expanding their vocabulary, although
they typically produce fewer words than they understand.
Intentional communication: Words used are purposeful and are meant to communicate
specific needs or observations.
Based on Dinesh's ability to use the word "Mine" appropriately, it is reasonable to assume
that he is likely around 12 to 18 months old.
1.b. Is the mother using caretaker speech or not? Motivate your answer with
examples from the dialogue.
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE 2 SEPT 2024
, 2.2 Assignment 2 (2 September 2024)
ASSESSMENT 02
This assessment counts 45% of your year mark. This is a written assessment and
needs to be submitted under Assessment 2 on myUnisa.
Question 1
1.a. What word stage is Dinesh likely to be in, and how old is he? Motivate your
answer with characteristics of that word stage.
Dinesh is likely in the one-word stage, which typically occurs between 12-18 months of
age. This stage is characterized by the use of single words to convey entire ideas or
meanings. Dinesh's use of the word "Mine" indicates that he is likely in this stage because
he is using a single word to express ownership of the toy duck. This is typical of the one-
word stage, where children begin to understand that words represent objects, actions, and
other aspects of their environment. They might not yet be able to form full sentences but
can use single words meaningfully.
Characteristics of the one-word stage:
Single-word utterances: The child uses one word at a time to express a whole idea or
request. For example, "Mine" in the context of the dialogue expresses ownership.
Vocabulary growth: Children at this stage are rapidly expanding their vocabulary, although
they typically produce fewer words than they understand.
Intentional communication: Words used are purposeful and are meant to communicate
specific needs or observations.
Based on Dinesh's ability to use the word "Mine" appropriately, it is reasonable to assume
that he is likely around 12 to 18 months old.
1.b. Is the mother using caretaker speech or not? Motivate your answer with
examples from the dialogue.
