Cognitive Abilities Test (CAT4) Practice Exam 2025 - Free CAT4 Practice Questions and Study Guide

The actions of deaf children who invent a sign language themselves provide significant evidence that language is learned socially. This phenomenon illustrates the innate human ability to develop a system of communication in a social context, even in the absence of formal instruction. When deaf children are together, they often start to create their own signs and gestures to communicate with one another, demonstrating that they are capable of developing a structured form of language organically.

This behavior highlights the critical role of social interaction in language acquisition. It indicates that language is not merely a set of learned words and grammar rules but is deeply rooted in social interactions and the need to express thoughts, feelings, and concepts within a community. By creating their own sign language, these children showcase that communication arises from their social environment, underscoring the importance of being part of a community in the development of language skills.