Which hypothesis distinguishes acquisition as rough-tuned and unconscious while learning is fine-tuned and conscious knowledge of rules?

• A. Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis
• B. The Natural Approach
• C. Suggestopaedia
• D. Universal Grammar

Answer: (A)

Two language systems are at work here: acquisition and learning. Acquisition is subconscious, developing through meaningful communication and natural use of the language; it’s rough-tuned to real-time input and yields fluent, spontaneous use. Learning, on the other hand, is conscious and explicit knowledge of grammar rules that learners can study and reflect on, capable of being used to monitor or correct speech, hence fine-tuned. This distinction is exactly what the Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis claims. It explains why people can speak fluently without being able to name the rules, while explicit instruction helps with awareness and rule application. The other options point to different theories or methods (input-focused approaches, relaxation-based methods, or innate grammar principles) and don’t describe this two-system separation.