Which of the following best describes the stages of language acquisition?

The option stating that children naturally learn to speak without direct instruction aligns with current understanding in the field of language acquisition. Research indicates that children demonstrate an innate ability to acquire language, suggesting that they are predisposed to learn and use language through exposure to their linguistic environment rather than solely through formal teaching methods.

During the early years, children engage in various stages of language development, from babbling to forming complex sentences, often mimicking sounds and patterns they hear from caregivers and their surroundings. This natural process is supported by their interactions, social cues, and exposure to language in context, enabling them to grasp grammar, vocabulary, and the nuances of communication effectively.

While environmental factors do play a crucial role in shaping language acquisition, the central tenet of this option is that children’s language skills develop organically as they interact with others and are immersed in linguistic experiences, reinforcing the idea of the inherent capacity to acquire language.