The u-shaped curve in language development is explained by which cognitive process?

• A. Learners first apply general rules, then memorize exceptions
• B. Learners ignore grammar rules
• C. Learners rely solely on imitation
• D. There is no rule system

Answer: (A)

The u-shaped curve shows how learners move from using a broad rule to memorizing exceptions. Early on, a child hears many past-tense forms and starts applying a simple productive rule—add -ed to verbs. This works for regular verbs, but when it comes to irregulars, the rule doesn’t fit, so incorrect forms surface (for example, applying the rule to go yields goed instead of went). That dip reflects the momentary reliance on the general rule. As more language data accumulate, the learner shifts back to storing and retrieving the actual irregular forms as lexical entries, improving accuracy again. So the best explanation is that learners first apply general rules, then memorize exceptions.