What is the innate property of all normal persons that enable them to learn a language naturally and spontaneously?

• A. Language Learning Module
• B. Universal Grammar
• C. Critical Period
• D. Language Acquisition Device

Answer: (D)

All normal language learning is driven by an inborn capacity that makes acquiring language feel natural. This innate faculty is called the Language Acquisition Device, a hypothetical brain system that provides the structures and rules for language and helps a learner map the speech they hear onto a grammatical framework. As children are exposed to language, the LAD guides how they set parameters and form rules, enabling them to produce fluent, grammatical sentences even when their input is imperfect. Universal Grammar represents the universal principles the system relies on, but the key idea here is the existence of the innate mechanism itself. The Critical Period concept relates to when learning happens most readily, not to the presence of the mechanism. Language Learning Module is not the standard label for this innate faculty, whereas Language Acquisition Device is the conventional term used in this theory.