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

Which term describes the ability to manage and correct communication breakdowns?

1. Strategic Competence

2. Cooperative Learning

3. Guided Practice

4. Language Experience Approach

The correct answer is: Strategic Competence

The term that accurately describes the ability to manage and correct communication breakdowns is strategic competence. This concept encompasses not only the knowledge of language but also the strategies one employs to effectively communicate, especially in situations where misunderstanding occurs. Strategic competence involves the skills of paraphrasing, rewording, and utilizing non-verbal cues to clarify meaning and ensure comprehension in communication. The other choices, while relevant to teaching and learning environments, do not specifically address the management of communication breakdowns. Cooperative learning focuses on students working together in groups to enhance learning, which is a valuable approach but not directly tied to communication repairs. Guided practice refers to the instructional method where teachers support and direct student learning through structured activities. The Language Experience Approach emphasizes using students' personal experiences as a basis for language instruction, which is more about content generation than communication strategies. Thus, strategic competence is the most appropriate choice for describing the ability to navigate and resolve communication challenges.