Cursos / 1º Ciclo / Institute of Psychology and Educational Sciences :: Psychology

PSICOLOGIA DA LINGUAGEM - 2025/2026

2º curricular year
Semestralidade: 1st semester
ECTS: 3

Teachers

Leading Teacher: Prof. Doutora Sofia Mendes
Assistant Professor: Prof. Doutora Sofia Mendes

Class type and School hours

Teórico-prática : 2 Horas

Teaching Language

Portuguese

Main Aims/Objectives

This course aims to study the cognitive and psychological processes underlying language. It also seeks to present the main theories that explain the process of language acquisition and development, as well as to address the emergence of reading and writing.

Specific Aims/Objectives

Identify the main properties, characteristics, and functions of language;
Understand the merits and limitations of different theories of language acquisition;
Describe the stages of language acquisition, recognizing diversity in its development;
Relate language development to the emergence of reading and writing;
Reflect on second language learning and bilingualism.

Skills to be acquired

Acquire theoretical and conceptual frameworks that support critical reflection, precise oral and written communication, and well-founded professional practice in the field of the psychology of language.

Teaching Procedures

Expository methodologies: Presentation of theoretical and conceptual reference frameworks under the responsibility of the instructor.
Active methodologies: Activities involving autonomous study, discussion, and work in small and large groups.
Peer learning: Analysis and feedback on work carried out by peers.

Programme

1. Introduction to Language
1.1. Concepts of communication, language, and speech
1.2. Channels of communication
1.3. Properties and functions of human language
1.4. Sensitive period for language acquisition and its implications

2. Theoretical Explanations of Language Acquisition and Development
2.1. Behaviorism
2.2. Nativism
2.3. Cognitivism
2.4. Interactionism

3. Language Components, Their Development, and Assessment
3.1. Pre-linguistic stage
3.2. Phonology
3.3. Morphology and syntax
3.4. Semantics
3.5. Pragmatics

4. Emergent Literacy
4.1. The emergence of reading and writing

5. Bilingualism and the Acquisition and Development of a Second Language

Evaluation Type

Attendance and punctuality
Active participation in activities and group work planned within the course
Continuous assessment through two written assignments
Summative assessment through a final exam

Teaching Resources

Computer, projector, devices, and educational videos
Online learning platform
Access to databases, relevant books, and articles
AI tools and platforms

Sustainability Objectives

SDG 4 – Quality Education
SDG 10 – Reduced Inequalities

Keywords

Language
Communication
Language acquisition and development
Emergent literacy
Bilingualism

Main Bibliography

Complementary Bibliography