FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which concept supports that receptive skills are more developed than productive skills in language acquisition?

1. Interlanguage theory

2. Second language acquisition theory

3. Contrastive analysis hypothesis

4. Language proficiency theory

The correct answer is: Second language acquisition theory

The idea that receptive skills often develop more swiftly than productive skills during language acquisition is strongly supported by second language acquisition theory. This theory posits that learners typically first acquire the ability to understand a language (receptive skills), such as listening and reading comprehension, before they are able to express themselves effectively through speaking and writing (productive skills). This distinction is significant because it reflects the natural progression in language learning, where understanding the rules and structures of a language typically precedes the ability to apply them in communication. Learners often engage with spoken and written language, absorbing vocabulary, grammar, and phonetics before they attempt to reproduce the language themselves. As they gain confidence and experience with receptive skills, they gradually shift towards developing their productive skills. Understanding this concept is crucial for educators as it informs teaching strategies, highlighting the importance of providing ample opportunity for listening and reading before expecting or requiring students to speak or write extensively in the language they are learning.