The development of language and literacy: evaluating the stereotypes.
People hold many stereotypes about the development of language and reading. We review current data concerning three stereotypes: (1) Girls learn language faster than boys; (2) Biological factors determine the time course of language acquisition; and (3) Dyslexia is a visual problem involving the reversal of letters. In each case, recent data leads to a different picture of the acquisition of language and literacy and deepens our understanding of the processes involved.
Goodman
Judith C
JC
University of Missouri School of Health Professions, USA. goodmanjc@health.missouri.edu
Wagovich
Stacy A
SA
D002675:Child, Preschool; D004410:Dyslexia / Q000503:physiopathology*; D004522:Educational Status; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D007804:Language Development; D008297:Male; D011932:Reading; D013240:Stereotyping