Question

The observation that language learners tend to acquire certain grammatical structures before others, regardless of formal instruction, supports which of Krashen's hypotheses?

• A. A. Input Hypothesis
• B. B. Monitor Hypothesis
• C. C. Affective Filter Hypothesis
• D. D. Natural Order Hypothesis

Answer 1

Answer:

D. D. Natural Order Hypothesis

Krashen's Natural Order Hypothesis: A Detailed Explanation

• The Natural Order Hypothesis, proposed by Stephen Krashen, posits that second language learners acquire grammatical structures in a predictable sequence, regardless of their native language, age, or the order in which they are taught.
• This 'natural order' suggests that certain grammatical features (like the progressive '-ing' or plural '-s') are typically acquired earlier than others (like third-person singular '-s' or possessive '-s').
• The core idea is that this order is not due to formal instruction but is a reflection of the brain's innate language processing mechanisms.
• Examples often cited include the acquisition of morphemes: progressive -ing usually comes before auxiliary be (e.g., 'he running' before 'he is running').

• Relationship to the Question:

  • The observation that learners acquire structures in a specific order, independent of instruction, directly supports the Natural Order Hypothesis. It implies an internal, predetermined sequence rather than one dictated by teaching syllabi.
  • This hypothesis argues against the efficacy of teaching grammar in a rigid, prescribed order, suggesting that learners will follow their own internal acquisition path anyway.

• Other Krashen's Hypotheses (for Competitive Exams):

  • Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis: Distinguishes between 'acquisition' (subconscious, natural language development) and 'learning' (conscious knowledge about language). Krashen argues acquisition is more important for fluency.
  • Monitor Hypothesis: States that conscious learning acts as a 'monitor' or 'editor' for output generated by the acquired system. It can only be used when there is sufficient time, focus on form, and knowledge of the rules.
  • Input Hypothesis: Claims that language acquisition occurs when learners receive comprehensible input that is slightly beyond their current level of competence (often termed 'i+1').
  • Affective Filter Hypothesis: Suggests that 'affective' variables (like motivation, self-confidence, anxiety) can create a 'filter' that impedes or facilitates comprehensible input from reaching the language acquisition device. A low affective filter is conducive to acquisition.
• Stephen Krashen is a prominent linguist and educational researcher who developed these influential theories of second language acquisition in the 1970s and 1980s. His work is fundamental in the field of Second Language Acquisition (SLA).