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

Which strategy is most effective for beginners who are not yet required to speak a new language?

1. Total Physical Response

2. Communicative language teaching

3. Implicit learning strategy

4. Visual learning technique

The correct answer is: Total Physical Response

Total Physical Response (TPR) is particularly effective for beginners who are not yet required to speak a new language because it engages physical movement as a means of learning. This technique involves the teacher giving commands in the target language while students respond with physical actions, which helps them to internalize language through kinesthetic experience. TPR capitalizes on how children naturally acquire their first language, making it a fitting strategy for beginners. It lowers the affective filter, allowing students to feel less anxious and more motivated, as they can physically demonstrate understanding without the pressure of speaking immediately. In contrast, communicative language teaching emphasizes interaction and may require learners to speak more actively before they are ready. Implicit learning strategies involve acquiring knowledge in an unconscious manner, which might not provide the structured guidance beginners need. Visual learning techniques can support language acquisition, but they do not incorporate the active engagement that TPR offers, making it less effective for those just starting their language-learning journey.