How long does the Pre-production stage typically last in second language acquisition?

The Pre-production stage, also known as the silent period, is typically characterized by a learner's initial exposure to a new language where they are not yet producing speech but are absorbing the language through listening and comprehension. This stage can last from 0 to 6 months, depending on the individual learner and their environment.

During this time, students are building foundational comprehension skills and may understand more than they can express verbally. Engaging with the language through listening to peers, teachers, and various linguistic input plays a crucial role in this phase. The range of 0 to 6 months effectively encompasses the variability in experiences and readiness among learners. After this initial period, many learners begin to experiment with using the language, marking the transition to the early production stage.