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

What is the vocabulary size typically associated with the Intermediate Fluency stage of second language acquisition?

1. 1,000 words

2. 3,000 words

3. 6,000 words

4. 10,000 words

The correct answer is: 3,000 words

The Intermediate Fluency stage of second language acquisition is typically associated with a vocabulary size of around 3,000 words. This stage is characterized by a learner's ability to communicate in more complex sentences and express a range of ideas. At this level, learners can understand and use vocabulary that pertains to various everyday topics and can begin to engage in more abstract conversations, though they may still struggle with idiomatic expressions and higher-level academic vocabulary. This vocabulary size provides learners with a solid foundation for both conversational and some academic contexts, supporting their continued growth toward advanced fluency. Other vocabulary sizes listed, such as 1,000 words, are generally associated with earlier stages of language learning, where basic conversational skills are being developed. Vocabulary sizes of 6,000 or 10,000 words are indicative of more advanced stages where learners are not only able to communicate fluently but can also understand and use language in nuanced and sophisticated ways.