Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Practice Test

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When teaching alphabetic students with phonetic languages, what should a teacher be aware of regarding their English reading?

  1. They will not transfer alphabet knowledge to English

  2. The irregularities of English may hinder comprehension

  3. Phonemic awareness skills will easily transfer to English

  4. They will rely heavily on context to confirm meanings

The correct answer is: They will rely heavily on context to confirm meanings

The correct answer highlights an important aspect of teaching students who are fluent in phonetic languages. When these students approach reading in English, a language known for its irregularities in spelling and pronunciation, they often utilize context as a key strategy to ascertain meaning. This reliance on context helps them navigate the complexities of English words, especially those that may not adhere to standard phonetic patterns they are accustomed to in their native languages. Additionally, this approach reflects a natural reading strategy, where context clues assist in decoding words and enhancing comprehension. By focusing on surrounding words, phrases, and the overall meaning of sentences, students can better grasp the material despite the unpredictable nature of English. Understanding this tendency allows teachers to tailor their instruction, encouraging the use of context as a supportive tool for improving reading skills in English.