What term did Karmiloff-Smith use for the idea that modularization develops gradually?

• A. Gradual modularisation
• B. Abrupt modularisation
• C. Rapid reorganisation
• D. Fixed modularisation

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is that cognitive modularization unfolds gradually over development rather than appearing fully formed or changing in sudden leaps. Karmiloff-Smith argued that the mind starts with broadly organized, overlapping processes and becomes more specialized through experience and reorganization of representations. She used the term gradual modularisation to capture this slow, stepwise differentiation of functions into distinct modules as the child grows. This view sits in contrast to notions of abrupt modular changes or fixed, pre-specified modules, and it aligns with her broader emphasis on developmental reorganization—how existing knowledge is redescribed and refined to support new abilities.