Which statement about mistakes in language learning is supported?

Which statement about mistakes in language learning is supported?

• A. Discouraging mistakes is essential.
• B. Mistakes mean you failed.
• C. Mistakes are a natural part of learning.
• D. Mistakes don't matter at all.

Answer: (C)

Mistakes are a natural part of learning. In language development, learners form guesses about how the language works and test them through speaking and writing. Those errors show what the learner still needs to learn and where to focus instruction. When teachers provide timely feedback and opportunities to practice, students revise their mental models and improve over time. A classroom that treats errors as normal and useful promotes risk-taking, motivation, and steady progress. Conversely, encouraging learners to avoid mistakes or saying mistakes mean failure can increase anxiety and reduce language use, which slows learning. So the best-supported idea is that errors are a natural step in the path to mastery.

Mistakes are a natural part of learning. In language development, learners form guesses about how the language works and test them through speaking and writing. Those errors show what the learner still needs to learn and where to focus instruction. When teachers provide timely feedback and opportunities to practice, students revise their mental models and improve over time. A classroom that treats errors as normal and useful promotes risk-taking, motivation, and steady progress. Conversely, encouraging learners to avoid mistakes or saying mistakes mean failure can increase anxiety and reduce language use, which slows learning. So the best-supported idea is that errors are a natural step in the path to mastery.