Gerken (cognitive science, U. of Arizona) eschews traditional approaches to the study of language by concentrating on a cognitive science perspective that offers several contrasting theories that are independent from culture, biology and history. The author breaks down language into "meaning units" to develop a system so that students can analyze phonology, lexical semantics, morphology, syntax and grammar. After exploring each theory, this book explains some of the methodologies used in language development research such as infant form discrimination, the association of form and reference, measurements of brain activity, child comprehension and sensitivity to morphosyntax and the testing of language production. Annotation ©2009 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)