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

What is the focus of the Cognitive Academic Language Learning Approach (CALLA)?

1. Reinforcing basic vocabulary skills

2. Improving speaking fluency only

3. Understanding and retaining content while improving language skills

4. Teaching grammar in isolation

The correct answer is: Understanding and retaining content while improving language skills

The focus of the Cognitive Academic Language Learning Approach (CALLA) is indeed centered on understanding and retaining content while improving language skills. This approach was designed specifically for students who are learning a second language in an academic setting. It emphasizes the integration of language development with academic content, allowing students to acquire both the linguistic and cognitive skills necessary for success in school subjects. The CALLA model recognizes that language learning is most effective when it is tied to meaningful content, thereby promoting not only language proficiency but also higher-order thinking skills. This dual focus helps learners navigate both language and academic challenges effectively, making it a well-rounded approach for diverse educational contexts. In contrast, other options like reinforcing basic vocabulary skills, improving speaking fluency exclusively, or teaching grammar in isolation do not encapsulate the holistic aim of CALLA. While vocabulary and fluency are essential components of language learning, they are not sufficient on their own for the academic success that CALLA strives to foster. Similarly, teaching grammar in isolation does not support the overall context-based learning that CALLA promotes.