Which Krashen hypothesis states that conscious knowledge can function as a monitor or editor of language?

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

Answer: (D)

Conscious knowledge can act as a monitor that edits language output. The Monitor Hypothesis says what you explicitly know about grammar can be used to check and correct what you have produced, or what you’re about to say, after the initial utterance is formed. It works best when you have time to think about form and when you know enough explicit rules. So it tends to boost accuracy, but it can slow you down and reduce fluency if you overthink or are pressed for time. In contrast, the Natural Order Hypothesis describes the typical sequence of acquiring grammar, the Input Hypothesis emphasizes understanding language just beyond current ability to promote learning, and the Affective Filter Hypothesis concerns how emotions influence one’s ability to process input.