Linguistic Subsystems and Concrete Operations

Abstract

TENEZAKIS, MARA D. Linguistic Subsystems and Concrete Operations. CHLD DEVELOPMENT, 1975, 46, 430-436. Sinclair-de Zwart's findings on relationships between cognitive and linguistic development were compared with data gathered in Sydney from 162 first-, second-, and thirdgrade Greek-English bilinguals (tested in both languages) and 136 English monoglots in the same classrooms. Both groups were of low SES. Despite differences in language used at home and in testing, conservation results were equivalent for all groups. On language comprehension, Sydney results were congruent with the Genevan results, but firstand second-grade Greeks performed better in English than in Greek. On language production measures, both similarities and differences were noted between Genevan and Sydney groups, suggesting that particular experiences influence language use.