Katherine Nelson (first words categories)

• Who was Katherine Nelson?

  A developmental psychologist
• What was one of Katherine Nelson's key research areas?

  First words that children produce
• How did Nelson categorize early words used by children?

  Into different types based on function
• What are the four main categories of first words identified by Katherine Nelson?

  1. Naming Words (Nominals)
  2. Action Words (Verbs)
  3. Modifiers (Adjectives and Adverbs)
  4. Personal-Social Words (Pragmatic Words)
• What do naming words refer to?

  People, objects, or places
• What is the significance of naming words?

  They reflect understanding of objects and people
• What do action words describe?

  Actions or events
• Why are action words significant in language development?

  They help express activities and events
• What do modifiers provide in language?

  Additional information about characteristics
• What is the significance of modifiers in language use?

  They help fine-tune descriptions and specificity
• What are personal-social words used for?

  Social interaction and personal needs
• Why are personal-social words significant?

  They allow navigation of social interactions