NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

How can discourse competence enhance communication?

1. By using complex vocabulary

2. By structuring language cohesively

3. By avoiding redundancies

4. By utilizing grammar rules effectively

The correct answer is: By structuring language cohesively

Discourse competence significantly enhances communication by structuring language cohesively. This aspect of discourse competence involves the ability to organize thoughts and ideas in a clear and logical manner, which is essential for effective communication. It enables speakers and writers to create connections between sentences and paragraphs, allowing ideas to flow smoothly and ensuring that the audience can easily follow the message being conveyed. When language is structured cohesively, it facilitates understanding and engagement, as transitions and well-organized content help listeners or readers anticipate what comes next. This cohesive structure is crucial in various contexts, such as conversations, presentations, or written texts, as it provides a framework for expressing complex ideas. In contrast, while using complex vocabulary, avoiding redundancies, and utilizing grammar rules are important aspects of language proficiency, they do not necessarily guarantee that communication will be effective or easily understood. Cohesion in discourse ensures that the information presented is accessible and logically sequenced, ultimately enhancing comprehension and effectiveness in communication.