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

Which teaching method involves prompting discussion through questioning?

1. Direct instruction

2. Cooperative learning

3. Socratic Method

4. Scaffolding

The correct answer is: Socratic Method

The Socratic Method is a form of teaching that emphasizes dialogue and questioning as a means to encourage critical thinking and deeper understanding among students. By prompting discussion through carefully constructed questions, this method allows learners to explore concepts, articulate their thoughts, and challenge their own viewpoints as well as those of their peers. This creates an interactive learning environment where students take an active role in their education, rather than passively receiving information. In contrast, direct instruction focuses primarily on teacher-led lectures and presentations, where the emphasis is on imparting knowledge rather than fostering discussion. Cooperative learning involves students working together in small groups to achieve common goals, which may include discussion but does not specifically center around questioning. Scaffolding refers to the support and guidance provided to students to help them achieve independence in their learning tasks, but it does not inherently involve prompting discussion through questioning like the Socratic Method does. Thus, the correct answer highlights the unique aspect of questioning that characterizes the Socratic Method in educational practices.