All learners move through stages as they acquire a first or new language. They move from one-word utterance to phrases to complete sentences. However, as educators, it is important to understand and know when the students have reached a certain stage in their language learning, this is what helps to differentiate instruction for the learner.

All learners learning an additional language will pass through these stages. The time frames are approximate and will vary for each learner, as it will depend on how much time is spent at each level. Home, school and community (local and regional media) infrastructure needs to be present and support Michif programming.

Five stages of language acquisition: