Introduction
Do animals use language? Is there
more than one kind of intelligence?
In this topic, we will
discuss Chapter 7 Thinking,
Language and Intelligence in
your textbook.
In Chapter 7 we will expand our
discussion of mental processes to
include the topics of thinking,
language, and intelligence. This
chapter begins by describing the
basic building blocks of human
thought, such as mental imagery
and concepts.
What factors influence decision making?
We will also learn about how we
solve problems and make decisions.
Chapter 7 also discusses one of the
most impressive cognitive abilities,our capacity to use language. We will discuss the
characteristics of language and how our language can impact our thinking. We will also have an
opportunity to explore the possibility that humans are not the only animals that are capable of
using language.
We will cover the various methods that have been used to measure intelligence and the
characteristics of well designed intelligence tests. Your textbook will discuss the controversy
surrounding the concept of intelligence and the different theories that attempt to define this
elusive concept. The role that genetics and environment play in our intellectual abilities will also
be explored.
Objectives
After completing the learning activities for this topic, you will be able to:







Define thinking and describe the foundations of thought--mental images and concepts.
Discuss the problem-solving strategies of trial and error, algorithms, heuristics, insight,
and intuition.
Identify obstacles to problem-solving including functional fixedness and mental set.
Explain decision-making and decision-making strategies.
Define language and discuss how language can impact our thinking.
Discuss whether nonhuman animals have been shown to use language.
Describe the relationship between thinking and language.




Contrast animal communication vs animal language.
Identify the various tests used to measure intelligence.
Compare the theories of intelligence.
Discuss how genetics and environment influence intelligence.
Activities Checklist
To meet the learning objectives for this topic, you will complete these activities. Print this page
and use it as a checklist.




Review the Introduction and Objectives page.
Read Chapter Seven: Thinking, Language and Intelligence in your textbook.
Complete the assignments on the Learning Activities page.
Complete the assignment: PsychSim 5 Reflection Questions - Get Smart
Learning Activities
Go to the publisher's web site and take the Practice Quiz over Chapter Seven.
Watch the videos about Language:



Animal Language - Kanzi with Lexigram
Animal Language - Alex the Talking Parrot
Animal Language - Koko the Signing Gorilla
PsychSim5 – Get Smart
Instructions
1.
2.
1.
2.
3.
Edit Instructions
Complete the PsychSim 5 Reflection Questions Assignment:
Read the PsychSim 5 Assignment: Get Smart on the publisher's companion site.
Type complete, comprehensive answers to all three Reflection Questions in a word processor file such
as Word or Notepad. The required length for the answers is one page, including all three answers.
Get Smart Reflection Questions:
After the completion of this activity, what is your personal definition of intelligence? What intellectual
abilities do you believe are most important to a successful professional and personal life?
Identify the subtests of the WAIS in which you had the most success.What abilities were these subtests
measuring?
Give an example of a situation in which high emotional intelligence would be required.