Final answer:
Language consists of a lexicon and grammar, with key components being phonology, syntax, morphology, semantics, and pragmatics, as outlined by Clark and Clark (1977). These elements work together to form a comprehensive communication system shaped by cultural and societal factors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Language, as a complex communication system, comprises several characteristics that enable humans to convey and understand meaning. Two of the most essential components of language are its lexicon and grammar. The lexicon, or vocabulary, of a language consists of the words that make up the language, while the grammar refers to the set of rules that guid how words are combined to communicate meaning. This includes phonology (the study of the sound system of a language), syntax (the structure of sentences), morphology (the structure of words), and semantics (the meaning of words and sentences). Additionally, the dimension of pragmatics is crucial as it relates to the use of language in context and the interpretation of meaning depending on the situation.
Chomsky's theory emphasizes the importance of semantics and syntax in grammar. Semantics involves the meaning that comes from words and morphemes, whereas syntax is about the rules for compiling words into sentences. Another vital aspect of language is its role in culture and its social functions, as language development and usage are deeply influenced by cultural and societal norms.
Clark and Clark's model of the five characteristics of language includes phonology, syntax, morphology, semantics, and pragmatics, which together create a framework for understanding the fundamental aspects of human linguistic communication.