What does "metalinguistics" involve?

Metalinguistics involves an awareness of language as an entity, which encompasses understanding language structures, functions, and processes. This includes the ability to think about and analyze language itself, not just using it for communication. Metalinguistic awareness allows individuals to reflect on how language works, recognize different linguistic features, and understand that language is a tool for conveying meaning. This cognitive skill is essential for developing reading and writing abilities, as it facilitates phonological awareness, syntax, semantics, and the ability to manipulate language forms.

The other options focus on more specific aspects of language use or comprehension rather than its broader awareness as a concept. Understanding only spoken language or interpreting body language does not capture the full scope of metalinguistics, which includes both spoken and written forms of language. Likewise, the use of language in a social context pertains to pragmatics and sociolinguistics, which are important but are distinct from the concept of metalinguistic awareness.