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

Which method is commonly used to assess oral-language proficiency?

1. Written tests

2. Standardized assessments

3. Descriptions of images

4. Multiple-choice questions

The correct answer is: Descriptions of images

The choice of using descriptions of images is effective in assessing oral-language proficiency because it prompts the individual to verbally articulate their thoughts about a visual stimulus. This method encourages spontaneous speech and allows the evaluator to gauge fluency, vocabulary usage, sentence structure, and overall communicative ability. Describing images requires the test-taker to engage in expressive language, demonstrating their ability to form coherent sentences and articulate their ideas. It can also show creativity and the capacity to connect language to visual cues, both of which are crucial components of oral communication. On the other hand, written tests and multiple-choice questions typically assess written language skills, often focusing more on reading comprehension or written expression rather than speaking abilities. Standardized assessments, while they can include oral components, are not as specific in targeting oral language skills as the act of describing an image directly does. Thus, descriptions of images provide a clear and effective method for assessing oral-language proficiency.