Final answer:
According to Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory of development, children do indeed speak to themselves in the form of inner speech, which is a crucial component of cognitive development. The correct answer is option a.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to Lev Vygotsky's sociocultural theory of development, the assertion that children speak to themselves is indeed true. Vygotsky posited that inner speech, which is essentially talking to oneself, plays a crucial role in children's cognitive development. Children use it as a means of thinking through problems, enhancing self-regulation, and directing their own behavior and learning.
From a Vygotskian perspective, inner speech begins as external or social speech, which is spoken out loud in the presence of others. Gradually, as children grow and develop, social speech becomes internalized, and they begin to communicate with themselves silently in their minds. This internal dialogue is a powerful tool for cognitive development and problem-solving.
Therefore, the correct answer to the question is: a. True.