Question

What does the Natural Order Hypothesis suggest about language acquisition?

• A. The sequence of acquiring grammar rules is completely random and varies greatly among individuals.
• B. Learners acquire language structures in an order determined solely by the teaching methodology used.
• C. People acquire certain grammar rules and language structures in a fixed, predictable order, regardless of how they are taught.
• D. Vocabulary is always acquired before any grammatical structures in language learning.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. People acquire certain grammar rules and language structures in a fixed, predictable order, regardless of how they are taught.

The Natural Order Hypothesis: A Core Concept in Language Acquisition

• The Natural Order Hypothesis is one of the five core hypotheses proposed by Stephen Krashen's influential Monitor Model of second language acquisition (SLA).
• It posits that learners acquire grammatical structures of a language in a fixed and predictable sequence, irrespective of their first language, age, or the methods of instruction used.
• This ordered acquisition is believed to be universal, suggesting an innate, biological predisposition for language learning.
• For instance, studies supporting this hypothesis often show that certain morphemes (smallest meaningful units of language) are acquired earlier than others. Common examples include:
  • -ing (progressive marker, e.g., 'running') is typically acquired early.
  • Auxiliary verbs (e.g., 'is', 'are') tend to follow.
  • The plural -s (e.g., 'dogs') is also acquired relatively early.
  • Possessive -'s (e.g., 'John's car') and the third-person singular -s (e.g., 'he runs') are often acquired later.
• It's crucial to understand that this hypothesis refers to the order of acquisition, not necessarily the speed or ease of acquisition. Learners might acquire rules at different speeds, but the sequence remains largely consistent.
• This hypothesis suggests that explicit grammar teaching or drills might not alter the fundamental order in which learners internalize grammar rules, but rather aid in 'monitoring' or polishing their output.
• From a competitive exam perspective, remember its association with Stephen Krashen's Monitor Model (alongside the Input Hypothesis, Monitor Hypothesis, Affective Filter Hypothesis, and Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis).
• It underscores the importance of natural, comprehensible input in language learning, as opposed to solely relying on explicit grammar instruction.