What does the comprehensible input hypothesis claim?

What does the comprehensible input hypothesis claim?

• A. L2 is acquired faster when the message is understood.
• B. Acquisition happens only through memorized phrases.
• C. Explicit grammar instruction alone guarantees fluency.
• D. Correction improves acquisition more than input.

Answer: (A)

The idea behind this claim is that language learning happens when learners can understand messages in the new language. When input is comprehensible but slightly beyond what the learner can produce easily, the brain picks up new structures and vocabulary through exposure, not just through memorized drills. This means understanding the message drives acquisition, making the learner’s overall progress faster. That’s why the correct choice fits: it states that L2 is acquired faster when the message is understood. It emphasizes meaningful, understandable language input (often with a bit of challenge) as the key driver of learning, rather than relying on memorized phrases, relying solely on explicit grammar instruction, or assuming that correction alone is more influential than the input. In practice, learners benefit from listening and reading opportunities where they can grasp meaning while gradually noticing patterns in grammar and usage.

The idea behind this claim is that language learning happens when learners can understand messages in the new language. When input is comprehensible but slightly beyond what the learner can produce easily, the brain picks up new structures and vocabulary through exposure, not just through memorized drills. This means understanding the message drives acquisition, making the learner’s overall progress faster.

That’s why the correct choice fits: it states that L2 is acquired faster when the message is understood. It emphasizes meaningful, understandable language input (often with a bit of challenge) as the key driver of learning, rather than relying on memorized phrases, relying solely on explicit grammar instruction, or assuming that correction alone is more influential than the input. In practice, learners benefit from listening and reading opportunities where they can grasp meaning while gradually noticing patterns in grammar and usage.