Inventive spellers typically:

A. write only words they are certain can be spelled correctly.
B. never learn conventional spelling.
C. omit consonants in words.
D. progress through a series of stages.

Is the answer D.?

Probably so.

I was thinking that it is either C. or D.

It definitely is not C.

That's why I then went with D. which seems like the best answer.

Write only words they are certain can be spelled correctly.

To determine the correct answer, we need to understand what is meant by "inventive spellers" and their typical characteristics.

Inventive spellers are children who use their limited knowledge of phonetics and spelling patterns to attempt to write words, even if they are not familiar with the conventional or standard spelling. They are often in the early stages of developing their spelling skills.

Now, let's evaluate each option:

A. Write only words they are certain can be spelled correctly: This is not true for inventive spellers. They often try to spell words even if they are unsure of the correct spelling, using their own understanding of phonetics and spelling patterns.

B. Never learn conventional spelling: Inventive spellers are in the process of learning spelling but may not have mastered conventional or standard spelling rules yet. So, this is not the most accurate answer.

C. Omit consonants in words: While inventive spellers might make mistakes or omit some letters, it is not a universal characteristic. Omitting consonants in words may be a common mistake for some children, but it is not a defining characteristic of inventive spellers.

D. Progress through a series of stages: This is indeed the most accurate answer. Inventive spellers progress through a series of stages as they improve their spelling skills. They gradually move from relying solely on phonetics and spelling patterns they know to learning and integrating conventional spelling rules and patterns.

Therefore, the answer is D. Inventive spellers progress through a series of stages.