Exogamy makes the intimate language of the family a central concern to those involved in the raising of a bilingual family. An overall framework must therefore be comprehensive, in the sense that all forms and directions of language learning and teaching can be accommodated. It cannot, of course, be comprehensive in the sense that it describes in detail all language that anyone would ever want to learn or teach. That is not merely quite impracticable. In a dynamically evolving society it is theoretically impossible.
Language is in continuous change.
The framework has then to identify the necessary parameters and higher categories for description, leaving practitioners to supply the concrete elements to the degree of detail they consider appropriate. To do so within a comprehensive overall framework may also encourage them to consider aspects of learner's competence and performance to which they have not previously given their attention. To see the more detailed specifications produced by other practitioners will also stimulate further reflection upon current practice. Learners may also be assisted in developing their awareness and in giving more structure to self-directed learning. In chapters 4 to 9 of this document a series of questions are addressed to users of the Framework.