What does the natural order hypothesis suggest?

The natural order hypothesis suggests that language is acquired in a predictable sequence. This concept, developed by Stephen Krashen, posits that learners progress through stages of language acquisition in a consistent order. For instance, certain grammatical structures are typically learned before others, irrespective of the learner's first language or the amount of exposure they have had to the new language.

Understanding this hypothesis is essential for educators because it emphasizes the importance of recognizing that learners may not immediately grasp complex grammatical structures and will often display a natural progression as they acquire the language. This understanding allows for the design of instructional strategies that align with the natural stages of language development, providing support that is appropriate for each learner’s level.

In contrast, the other options present different perspectives that do not align with the natural order hypothesis. While options concerning formal instruction, uniqueness in language acquisition, and chaotic environments touch on valid aspects of language learning, they do not specifically address the sequential nature of how language structures are acquired as outlined by the natural order hypothesis.