Syntax development: the relevance of realistic methods

Abstract

Silva examines the development of language, with particular reference to grammar in a group of Spanish speaking children aged between 3 and 7. Etnographic methods were used to conduct and analyse the study in the form of semi-structured interviews between adult and children, and then a careful mapping of the use of Relative clauses. These forms are considered to occur in children at different stages, but this study challenges that position as they appeared in the study at the same ages. Silva believes that the use of semi-structured interviews gave a far more accurate result, because the children were relaxed and spontaneous. By avoiding an experimental context which makes children feel self-conscious, the researchers gained more speech examples from the children, giving a broader sample to analyse.