The defining characteristic of a 'model' of English
Gabarito: letra D. According to the author, a 'model' of English is not a single variety or a prescriptive framework, but a complex framework that includes methodology and variety, and goes beyond to incorporate other dimensions of the context and practice of learning English. The text states: "By a 'model' of English I mean a complex framework, which includes issues of methodology and variety, but goes beyond these to include other dimensions of the context and practice of learning English" and later refers to "broad models which can be thought of as configurations of the factors". Thus, the defining characteristic is that it is a configuration that gathers not only methodology but also the complexities involved in English language learning.
Alternativa A — ❌ Incorreta
The author explicitly rejects this: "By a 'model' I do not mean a particular variety of English – such as US or British – though selection of a particular variety may play a role." A model is broader than a specific variety.
Alternativa B — ❌ Incorreta
The text mentions that "governments, employers, textbook publishers, examination providers" are stakeholders, but the model itself is not defined as a prescriptive framework established by them. The author defines a model as a complex framework, not a prescriptive one.
Alternativa C — ❌ Incorreta
While the text acknowledges a "proliferation of acronyms", it says a model is a "complex framework", not a simple acronym. The model goes beyond a simple label.
Alternativa D — ✅ Correta ⟵ GABARITO
This alternative matches the author's definition exactly: "a complex framework, which includes issues of methodology and variety, but goes beyond these" and is described as a "configuration of factors". It captures the essential characteristic that a model is a configuration encompassing methodology and the broader complexities of learning English.
Alternativa E — ❌ Incorreta
The author does not restrict a model to a pedagogical approach focusing on either spoken or written proficiency. The model includes multiple dimensions, and the text discusses a variety of factors such as learner age, purpose (international communication or survival), and context.
Conclusão: O gabarito é a letra D, pois reflete a definição do autor de que um 'modelo' de inglês é uma configuração abrangente que inclui metodologia e outros aspectos complexos do ensino/aprendizagem.