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

What is the focus of linguistic competence?

1. Recognizing communication breakdowns

2. Knowledge of language structures, including syntax and semantics

3. Constructing cohesive texts

4. Omitting sounds in speech

The correct answer is: Knowledge of language structures, including syntax and semantics

The focus of linguistic competence lies in the knowledge of language structures, which encompasses aspects such as syntax, semantics, phonology, and morphology. This concept refers to an individual's ability to understand and generate the rules of a language and how these rules are applied to form coherent and meaningful utterances. Linguistic competence is concerned with the theoretical understanding of language, enabling speakers to produce grammatically correct sentences and comprehend the meanings behind these structures. In this context, recognizing communication breakdowns relates more to pragmatic competence, which involves the effective use of language in social contexts. Constructing cohesive texts pertains to discourse competence, focusing on the organization and flow of ideas within written or spoken communication. The omission of sounds in speech is related to phonetic or phonological aspects, which are part of language use but do not address the broader framework of linguistic competence itself. Therefore, the correct answer emphasizes the foundational knowledge of language structures that underpins effective communication.