Stage I in Brown's model corresponds to which age range?

• A. 15-30 months
• B. 9-12 months
• C. 24-30 months
• D. 31-36 months

Answer: (A)

Stage I in Brown’s language development sequence represents the early toddler years when speech starts to build from single words to simple two‑word combinations. Children in this period are typically about 15 to 30 months old. The talking patterns at this stage show emerging syntax but little or no inflection or bound morphemes; speech often sounds telegraphic, like “mommy go” or “more milk.” The focus is on putting words together in a basic order and expressing clear, concrete meanings, rather than mastering the grammar and endings that come later.

That’s why this age window is the best fit. Earlier ages, such as 9–12 months, are dominated by babbling and early word use, not two-word combinations. Later windows, like 24–30 months or 31–36 months, involve more complex forms and morphemes that appear as language becomes more grammatical, aligning with Stage II or later.