1. Human language is distinct from animal communication in that it is compositional, allowing for an infinite number of sentences by recombining words into subject, verb and object roles. 2. Some key properties of human language include reflexivity, displacement, arbitrariness, productivity, and cultural transmission. 3. While some chimpanzees have been taught limited sign language or words, research shows they lack the physical capabilities and social structure for fully acquiring human spoken language. Their communication is more emotional and gestural.