Which language component is focused on the structure governing phrases and sentences?

The correct answer is the component of language known as syntax. Syntax pertains to the set of rules, principles, and processes that govern the structure of sentences in a given language, including word order, sentence length, and the organization of phrases. It involves how different words and phrases combine to convey meaning clearly and coherently.

Understanding syntax is crucial in language development and education, particularly for students with exceptional needs. Proficiency in syntax allows individuals to form grammatically correct sentences and comprehend complex sentence structures, which is essential for successful written and verbal communication.

Phonology, on the other hand, deals with the sound systems of a language. Semantics refers to the meaning of words and phrases, while orthography relates to the conventional spelling system of a language. Each of these components plays a distinct role in language, but syntax specifically focuses on the arrangement and organization of phrases and sentences.