Evidence of mental abilities can be seen in all activities, not just teacher planned learning experiences. 5 major schools of theory or ways of understanding cognition. Look for evidence of any of these in your observations of children. Emphasis on observable behavior, a small number of learning processes used by people of all ages. Operant condition - Positive responses increase behavior.
Language allows abstract thought, communication and make believe play.
Vygotsky - importance of language and social interactions.