A writing system developed in Mesopotamia using a wedge-shaped stylus

The Origins of Language and Communication

Linguistics

This document explores the multifaceted nature of communication, from non-verbal cues and early human interactions to the development of spoken and written language. It delves into the historical evolution of writing systems, the impact of technology on language, and the significance of language in human development and society. The text also touches upon the nuances of business English, code-switching, and the ongoing evolution of language.

Communication Language Evolution

21 Questions Medium Ages 16+ Mar 15, 2026

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About this Study Set

This study set covers Linguistics through 21 practice questions. This document explores the multifaceted nature of communication, from non-verbal cues and early human interactions to the development of spoken and written language. It delves into the historical evolution of writing systems, the impact of technology on language, and the significance of language in human development and society. The text also touches upon the nuances of business English, code-switching, and the ongoing evolution of language. Every question includes the correct answer so you can learn as you go — pick any format above to get started.

Questions & Answers

Browse all 21 questions from the The Origins of Language and Communication study set below. Each question shows the correct answer — select a study format above to practice interactively.

1 What are the three main forms of communication described in the text?

A Verbal, non-verbal, and written
B Spoken, gestural, and visual
C Auditory, tactile, and olfactory
D Internal, external, and symbolic

2 Before written language, how did humans primarily communicate?

A Through complex spoken languages only
B Using body language, sounds, signs, and symbols
C Primarily through written symbols
D By telepathic means

3 According to Mehrabian's findings, what percentage of communication is attributed to vocal elements (tone, pitch, speed)?

A 7%
B 38%
C 55%
D 100%

4 What is a 'sign' as defined in the text?

A A word representing an idea
B A mark that represents a relationship
C A direct picture representation of an object
D A sound that expresses emotion

5 What distinguishes a symbol from a sign?

A Symbols are always spoken, while signs are visual
B Symbols are more abstract than signs
C Signs are used for immediate objects, while symbols are for complex ideas
D Symbols are a newer development than signs

6 What allows humans to create an infinite number of sentences?

A The vastness of the human vocabulary
B The ability to memorize all possible word combinations
C Language patterns and rules
D The use of non-verbal cues

7 How often are new words added to the Oxford Dictionaries, according to the text?

A About 100 words per year
B About 1,000 words per year
C About 10,000 words per year
D New words are added only when a new language develops

8 What is 'internal language' also referred to as?

A Written language
B Spoken language
C Self-talk
D Non-verbal communication

9 What was a primary motivation for German and British missionaries to develop written forms of indigenous languages in colonised countries?

A To facilitate trade
B To document local flora and fauna
C Translating the Bible
D To establish new educational systems

10 What is 'code switching'?

A Using a different language for formal communication
B Using different languages or dialects within a single sentence
C Translating a message from one language to another
D Speaking in a coded or secretive manner

11 When did spoken language develop approximately?

A 100,000 years ago
B 5,000 years ago
C 25,000 years ago
D 1 million years ago

12 What is cuneiform?

A An ancient Egyptian writing system
B A type of cave painting
C A writing system developed in Mesopotamia using a wedge-shaped stylus
D The first known alphabet

13 Which of the following is NOT mentioned as an early form of record-keeping?

A Scratches on stone or wood
B Knots in rope
C Cave paintings
D Written scrolls

14 What is a key concept related to the development of species over time?

A Adaptation
B Mutation
C Evolution
D Natural Selection

15 Business English is considered a separate language because it has unique grammar and structures.

A True
B False

16 Emojis and emoticons are generally appropriate in which type of communication?

A Formal emails
B Official documents
C Informal communication
D Academic papers

17 What is a benefit of good communication in the workplace?

A Increased competition among colleagues
B Improved understanding and relationships
C Reduced need for collaboration
D Faster decision-making through isolation

18 The evolution pattern of language is described as Simple → Complex → ?

A Complex
B Simple
C Static
D Evolving

19 Which civilization is associated with the development of hieroglyphics?

A Mesopotamian
B Greek
C Egyptian
D Roman

20 The first alphabets emerged representing which type of sounds?

A Vowel sounds only
B Consonant sounds only
C Both vowel and consonant sounds
D All phonetic sounds

21 What role does language play in human development according to the text?

A It limits complex societal organization
B It is not essential for the development of modern cultures
C It enables recording information, sharing knowledge, and complex societal organization
D It distinguishes humans from animals but has no other major role

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