What concept is employed when Ms. Peterson uses both familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary in her lessons?

The concept of comprehensible input is crucial in language acquisition and development. It refers to the strategy where the language input provided to learners is slightly above their current proficiency level, making it both understandable and challenging. By incorporating both familiar and unfamiliar vocabulary, Ms. Peterson ensures that her students are exposed to new words while still being able to connect those new terms with words they already know. This approach helps to build their vocabulary and encourages them to engage with the language in a more meaningful way.

Familiar vocabulary provides a foundation for understanding, while the introduction of unfamiliar terms pushes students to expand their language skills. This balance aids in comprehension and retention, facilitating a smoother learning experience that can significantly enhance students' confidence and proficiency in the language.