According to the Natural Order hypothesis, how is second language (L2) acquisition similar to first language acquisition?

The Natural Order hypothesis posits that second language acquisition follows a predictable sequence, much like first language acquisition. This means that certain grammatical structures are acquired before others, regardless of the age of the learner or the specific language being acquired. This consistent order of acquisition reflects how humans are naturally inclined to learn language, progressing through stages that are often similar for both first and second languages.

For instance, children learning their first language typically grasp simple structures before moving on to more complex ones. Similarly, language learners often find themselves acquiring certain features of a second language in a predictable order, such as mastering present tense forms before moving to past tense forms. This underlying principle of a natural and consistent sequence in language acquisition supports the notion that learners are generally influenced by innate cognitive processes rather than solely by the educational context in which they learn.

The other options touch on various aspects of language learning but do not directly capture the core concept of consistent acquisition order found in the Natural Order hypothesis. For example, simultaneous learning can occur, but it doesn't highlight the sequence aspect; structured environments and explicit instruction can aid learning but do not pertain to the innate sequence of acquisition that the hypothesis describes.