In which stage of second-language acquisition do learners typically refrain from speaking but respond to visual cues?

The stage of second-language acquisition where learners typically refrain from speaking but can respond to visual cues is the Preproduction stage. During this initial phase, learners are often in a receptive stage of language acquisition, meaning they are absorbing the language but not yet ready to produce it verbally.

At this stage, learners may understand more than they can express. They benefit from visual aids and non-verbal cues that help them connect meanings with the new language. This receptive ability allows them to respond to their environment, often through gestures or pointing, rather than through spoken language.

In contrast, other stages involve more engagement in speech and interactive forms of language use. For instance, the Early Production stage is characterized by limited speech production where learners begin to use single words and simple phrases. The Speech Emergence stage marks a significant increase in speaking ability, where learners can form more complex sentences. Advanced Fluency is the stage where learners display a high level of proficiency and can communicate effectively in various contexts.