Which Krashen hypothesis states that language rules are acquired in a predictable order?

• A. The Input Hypothesis asserts that language is acquired only by receiving comprehensible input.
• B. The Natural Order Hypothesis states that language rules are acquired in a predictable sequence.
• C. The Affective Filter Hypothesis posits that emotions block input.
• D. The Monitor Hypothesis describes how the conscious mind edits language.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that language rules tend to be learned in a fixed, natural sequence. This is Krashen’s Natural Order Hypothesis: grammatical features emerge in a relatively predictable order as learners are exposed to the language, regardless of how much formal instruction they receive. In practice, learners often acquire some forms early (like certain verb forms) and struggle with others (such as articles or more complex tenses) later, following a common developmental path. This happens even though teaching can help practice forms, it doesn’t usually alter the progression of how those forms are acquired. The other ideas from Krashen focus on the importance of understanding input, the impact of emotions on learning, or how conscious rules are used to edit speech, but they don’t describe the predictable sequence of grammatical development.