TEXES Science of Teaching Reading Practice Test

Which of the following strategies is most effective for supporting English learners' verbal responses?

1. Forcing participation in debates

2. Providing vocabulary lists

3. Using sentence stems and frames

4. Encouraging silent reading

The correct answer is: Using sentence stems and frames

Using sentence stems and frames is highly effective for supporting English learners’ verbal responses because it provides a structured way for students to engage in speaking and writing. Sentence stems give learners a starting point, reducing the cognitive load associated with organizing their thoughts and formulating sentences in a new language. This strategy helps them feel more confident in expressing their ideas without the pressure of generating complete, grammatically correct sentences independently. Sentence stems can prompt specific responses and guide discussions, enabling English learners to participate in classroom conversations while developing their language skills. This method also encourages interaction among peers, creating a supportive environment where students can practice their language skills collaboratively. By using sentence frames, teachers can help learners gradually build their language proficiency in a manageable way, making it easier for them to express complex ideas as they become more comfortable with the language. In contrast, forcing participation in debates might create stress and discourage engagement, especially if students feel unprepared. Providing vocabulary lists, while beneficial, does not alone facilitate verbal responses or real-time conversational skills. Encouraging silent reading, while important for building overall literacy, does not directly support verbal expression or interaction, which is crucial for language development among English learners.