What is morphology in language development?

Morphology in language development is characterized by the study of word structure. It focuses on how words are formed, the internal structure of words, and the relationships between their forms and meanings. This includes examining roots, prefixes, suffixes, and how they combine to create new words or modify existing ones. Understanding morphology is essential because it helps learners recognize patterns in word formation, which can enhance their vocabulary and decoding skills when reading or writing.

The other options relate to different aspects of language. The concept of sentence formation pertains to syntax, which deals with how words combine to form phrases and sentences. The meaning of words relates to semantics, which is concerned with what words signify and how meaning is constructed in language. Lastly, the study of individual sounds falls under phonetics or phonology, which explores the sounds of speech rather than the structure of words themselves. Each of these components is crucial for grasping language as a whole, but morphology specifically addresses the structure of words.