Human language is a weird communication system: it has more in common with birdsong than with the calls of other primates. In this clear and non-technical overview, Jean Aitchison explores why it evolved and how it developed. She likens the search to a vast prehistoric jigsaw puzzle, in which numerous fragments of evidence must be assembled, some external to language, such as evolution theory and animal communication; others internal, including child...

This rich ELL resource helps content and ESOL teachers collaboratively help struggling ELs meet today's rigorous content standards using research-based scaffolding techniques, advocacy and more!