Which of the following would participants most readily identify as a bird, according to the prototype theory of word meaning?
A) penguin
B) ostrich
C) robin
D) Each of these would be identified equally rapidly as birds.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

According to the prototype theory of word meaning, category members that are more typical or central to a category are recognized more quickly than members that are less typical. In the case of the category "bird," the prototype would be a small, flying bird with feathers and a beak, such as a robin. Therefore, participants would most readily identify a robin (Choice C) as a bird, while they may hesitate more with a penguin (Choice A) or ostrich (Choice B) due to their less typical characteristics (e.g. inability to fly, larger size).

Which of the Following Would Participants Most Readily Identify as a Bird