Language Is Communication

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Essay: Language is communication. Discuss. Human communication can be divided into two broad categories - verbal and non-verbal. Language is used in both verbal and non-verbal communication. Verbal communication occurs when we use language to speak and listen to others. Non-verbal communication uses gestures and body movements. In addition to that, we also use nonverbal communication when we read and write using language. So, language can be defined in many ways. The definition that appeals most to me is that language is a systematic and structured representation of things, ideas, thoughts and actions using distinct symbols and sounds. Language is structured and systematic because each language has a specific set of rules called “grammar" which makes it unique. Communication is a way of conveying information. Language is the tool used to communicate. Developmental psychologists such as Piaget and Vygotsky explored the theories of language development. According to Piaget, language development, as well as other areas of development occurs in stages. The perfecting of one stage, leads to the development of the next stage. Each stage builds on the previous one. These stages are distinct yet continuous in nature. Using language as a means of communication is a process that every child learns, and continues to use till death. Piaget states that the development of language depends on the maturity of thought in a child. Cognitive abilities form a vital part of language development. Vygotsky on the other hand advocated that cognitive development is dependent on language development. He also stated that language and thought are separate and not interlinked until a child reaches the age of 2 years. Langer (The American philosopher of mind an art) in her essay entitled Language, describes language as a means of communication as an “organic need". She
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