Which of the following examples provides the strongest support for the theory that all children are born with an innate sense of universal language principles that can be applied to the acquisition of any language?
  1. A child can produce structurally complex novel utterances at a very young age.
  2. A child creates a new language to speak with an imaginary friend.
  3. A child can repeat verbatim the words of songs from favorite television programs.
  4. A child mimics adult speech when playing with other children.
Explanation
Correct Response: A. Researchers have found evidence that children are able to apply adult-like grammar structures creatively at a young age (approximately 2–2.5 years of age/telegraphic stage) and produce unique sentences using a range of sentence types. C and D emphasize memorization of language or situation-specific vocabulary rather than "novel" or creative production on the part of the child, making those answers incorrect. B is incorrect because it highlights a creative activity but not one that necessarily applies universal language principles.
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