As a child, Michelle learned sign language at the same time she learned English because her mother signed and spoke at the same time. If Michelle has a stroke that results in Broca's aphasia, which of the following might you expect?
A) She will speak English with difficulty but will be able to sign perfectly.
B) She will be unable to sign correctly but will be able to speak English well.
C) She will be able to speak English with difficulty and will also have trouble signing.
D) She will have no comprehension of English, but she will be able to sign well.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Broca's aphasia specifically affects the ability to produce language, but typically does not affect comprehension. As Michelle learned sign language at the same time as English, it is likely that both language modalities were supported by the same language-processing mechanisms in her brain. Therefore, it is possible that Broca's aphasia would affect both her ability to speak and sign language. However, as sign language involves a different modality and neural pathway than spoken language, it is also possible that she would continue to be able to sign more fluently than she can speak.

As a Child, Michelle Learned Sign Language at the Same