Which term describes the overall framework that outlines sequential stages of language development?

• A. two-way immersion program
• B. newcomer program
• C. continuum of learning theory
• D. context-embedded communication

Answer: (C)

The main idea here is recognizing a framework that describes how learners move through a sequence of stages as they acquire language. The continuum of learning theory provides that overarching structure, outlining progression from beginning exposure to full academic language. It helps teachers tailor instruction to each student's current stage, using strategies like comprehensible input, modeling, and gradually increasing linguistic demands as students advance.

The other terms refer to how instruction is delivered or specific methods, not to the broad progression students go through. A two-way immersion program describes a setting where both languages are used in instruction. A newcomer program is a type of support for recent arrivals. Context-embedded communication is a strategy that uses meaningful context to support understanding.