The u-shaped grammar curve in language development describes which pattern?

• A. Children initially speak correctly, then apply rules incorrectly, then learn exceptions again
• B. Vocabulary increases linearly without errors
• C. Grammar is learned entirely from imitation with no rule formation
• D. Children start with complex syntax and simplify over time

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is that grammar development often follows a U-shaped path: kids start by using forms they’ve memorized or heard as correct, then apply a general rule too broadly and make errors, and finally relearn the exceptions and restore correct usage. For example, a child might initially say the correct irregular past tense “went,” then generalize the past tense rule and say “goed,” and later relearn the irregular form and say “went” again. This pattern shows that children are not just imitating speech but are forming and testing grammar rules, with vocabulary memory supporting the later restoration of accuracy.