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

Which aspect does Interlanguage typically blend?

1. Only aspects of the target language

2. Elements from the target language and the first language

3. Features of academic language and colloquial expressions

4. All forms of communication styles

The correct answer is: Elements from the target language and the first language

Interlanguage is a term used to describe the evolving language form that learners create as they progress in acquiring a new language. It is characterized by a blend of elements from both the learner's first language and the target language they are attempting to master. This blending occurs because language learners often transfer rules, vocabulary, and structures from their native language into their use of the target language, resulting in a unique linguistic system that reflects influences from both languages. This operational process allows learners to communicate and develop their language skills, even if their output is not grammatically perfect or fully aligned with native speaker norms. The interlanguage stage is crucial for understanding the challenges faced by learners as they navigate through their language development. While the other options mention aspects of language use or forms of communication, none capture this essential characteristic of interlanguage, which is the interplay between a learner’s native language and the new language they are acquiring. Thus, recognizing the nature of interlanguage as a blend of elements from both the first and target languages provides insight into the complexities of language learning.