CEA CEA Literacy & Numeracy Instruction 2

Question 1

Which of the following BEST describes the concrete-representational-abstract (CRA) instructional sequence in mathematics?

Accepted Answer

Moving from physical objects to visual diagrams to symbolic notation

Answer

The CRA sequence builds mathematical understanding by starting with hands-on manipulatives, progressing to drawings, and finally moving to abstract symbols.

Question 2

A student can follow the steps to multiply two-digit numbers but cannot explain why the algorithm works. This student lacks:

Accepted Answer

Mathematical conceptual understanding

Answer

Conceptual understanding means knowing why procedures work, not just how to execute them; this student demonstrates procedural knowledge without conceptual depth.

Question 3

Which tool is MOST effective for helping early elementary students develop number sense?

Accepted Answer

A number line and base-ten blocks

Answer

Number lines build an understanding of quantity and relationships between numbers, while base-ten blocks model place value concretely, both foundational to number sense.

Question 4

An educational assistant is helping a student who struggles to solve multi-step math word problems. Which support strategy should be used FIRST?

Accepted Answer

Teach the student to read the problem, identify key information, and plan before computing

Answer

Teaching students to read carefully, identify relevant information, and plan a solution approach builds the metacognitive skills needed for multi-step problem solving.

Question 5

What is the MAIN purpose of using graphic organizers (such as story maps) in reading instruction?

Accepted Answer

To help students visually organize and retain key ideas from a text

Answer

Graphic organizers provide a visual framework that supports comprehension by helping students identify and organize key textual elements such as characters, settings, and events.

CEA - Certified Educational Assistant Practice Test

CEA - Certified Educational Assistant Practice Test

CEA CEA Literacy & Numeracy Instruction 2