Answer:
The first layer of the English orthography refers to the most basic and straightforward rules for spelling and pronunciation in the English language. This layer includes simple phonetic correspondences between letters and sounds, such as the letters "c" and "e" usually representing the sounds /k/ and /i/, respectively, in words like "cat" and "set." However, there are many exceptions to these rules, which make English spelling more complex and require learners to memorize irregular patterns. The second and third layers of English orthography involve more complex phonetic and morphological rules, as well as historical and cultural factors that have influenced the development of the English writing system over time.