What does the sentence "A ball is a toy," illustrate about the ball?

The sentence "A ball is a toy" illustrates the concept of categorization. It identifies the ball as belonging to a particular class or category, which in this case is "toy." This classification helps to understand the ball in relation to other objects, indicating that it shares common characteristics with other toys, such as being used for play.

Understanding the distinction between class, feature, function, and purpose is important in verbal behavior. This sentence does not describe a specific feature of the ball (like its color or size), its function (how it is used, such as throwing or bouncing), or its purpose (what it is intended to achieve, like entertainment). Instead, it places the ball within a broader category of items, which is why the correct interpretation aligns with the idea of class.