Which of the following refers to ‘Knowing about language’?

The correct answer is Declarative knowledge.

Understanding the Concepts:

In language acquisition and cognitive psychology, knowledge about language is generally categorized into two main types:

1. Declarative Knowledge: This refers to "knowing that" or "knowing about" something. In the context of language, declarative knowledge involves explicit understanding of language rules, grammar structure, vocabulary definitions, and concepts (i.e., "knowing about language"). A learner with declarative knowledge can explain a grammatical rule or describe how a language system functions.

2. Procedural Knowledge: This refers to "knowing how" to do something. It is the practical ability to use language automatically and fluently in communication without necessarily thinking about the underlying rules conscious of them.

Analysis of Options:

• Strategic competence: Refers to the ability to use verbal and non-verbal communication strategies to compensate for breakdowns in communication or enhance effectiveness.

• Declarative knowledge: Directly corresponds to explicit awareness and knowledge about language rules, terms, and structures ("knowing about language").

• Procedural knowledge: Refers to the performative aspect or practical application of language skills ("knowing how to use language").

• Grammatical knowledge: Refers specifically to knowledge of the rules of grammar, which can be either implicit or explicit, but does not broadly define the general psychological concept of "knowing about" a domain.

Therefore, "Knowing about language" is defined as Declarative knowledge.