The main goal of this research was to replicate an experiment established by Vigotski about concept formation. The experiment investigated the development and organization of conceptual thinking in the adult population, and questioned the steps followed in the formation of a new concept and how adults can understand the meaning of a new word. The random sample consisted of 20 university students from various courses, aged between 18 and 24 years. The method of research consists of an application of an instrument composed by a set of wooden blocks of colors, shapes, heights and widths associated with nonsense words with which the participant should seek a solution to a proposed problem. The recorded and transcribed speeches in the sessions were subjected to analysis. It was observed that the application of the instrument that there was no regularity relating to steps taken during the formation of the concept. We demonstrate that generalization is the main function of language, without which it is impossible to acquire the experience and established itself as the basis of complex thought.
concept formation; Vigotski; thinking