The unitary system hypothesis and separate system hypothesis are two theories that describe how language develops in children who are exposed to two different languages, most often in the home.
First, we should discuss the basic premise of each hypothesis and how it applies to bilingual children. Keep in mind that each hypothesis applies to young children developing language skills, most often under the age of four.
The unitary system hypothesis states that children learn two languages as one in the beginning. The two languages are united into one set of rules, vocabulary, and structure. Around age three or four, children begin to separate the two languages. They learn to code-switch, meaning that they can switch from one language to the other. This is a difficult skill to master and one of the reasons that early and consistent exposure to both languages is so important when raising a bilingual child.
The separate system hypothesis states that a bilingual child is able to recognize and...
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