FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What technique can teachers use to help ESOL students engage in classroom discussions?

1. Encourage silent learning without interaction

2. Promote linguistic-risk talking

3. Limit group activities to only native speakers

4. Use only written assignments

The correct answer is: Promote linguistic-risk talking

Promoting linguistic-risk talking is an effective technique for helping ESOL (English for Speakers of Other Languages) students engage in classroom discussions because it encourages them to take risks with their language use. This approach supports students in practicing their language skills in a low-pressure environment, fostering a sense of confidence as they participate in conversations. By allowing students to express their thoughts and ideas, even if they make mistakes, the teacher creates an inclusive atmosphere that values communication over perfection. This can significantly enhance the students' language acquisition and practical communication skills. Such engagement helps build their vocabulary, improve their pronunciation, and develop their ability to construct sentences in English. In contrast, encouraging silent learning without interaction, limiting group activities to native speakers, and using only written assignments can hinder the development of language skills. These approaches do not allow for verbal practice or peer interaction, which are critical for language learning, restricting opportunities for ESOL students to use and improve their English in a practical context. Thus, promoting linguistic-risk talking effectively supports ESOL students in becoming more active participants in classroom discussions.