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

Which of the following best describes the process of overextending in language acquisition?

1. Using a word too broadly

2. Using grammar structures incorrectly

3. Using an advanced vocabulary prematurely

4. Underusing language in communication

The correct answer is: Using a word too broadly

Overextending in language acquisition refers to the phenomenon where a child or language learner applies a term to a broader category of objects or concepts than is typically appropriate. For example, if a child refers to all four-legged animals as "dog," they are overextending the use of that word beyond its accepted meaning. This showcases the learner's attempt to make sense of the world around them by linking new experiences with known vocabulary, even if the usage isn't quite right. This understanding captures the essence of how language learners experiment with vocabulary as they build their grasp of the language. In contrast, the other options touch on different aspects of language use, such as grammatical errors or limited communication, which do not align with the specific nature of overextension. Thus, the correct description of overextending is its broader application of a word beyond its specific meaning.