CELTA Learners & Teachers 5

Question 1

Which term describes the ability to use language appropriately according to social context, not just grammatically correctly?

Accepted Answer

Sociolinguistic competence

Answer

Sociolinguistic competence is the ability to use language in ways that are culturally and socially appropriate for a given context, register, or relationship.

Question 2

A CELTA trainer observes that a trainee corrects errors by simply repeating the learner's utterance with the correct form using emphatic stress. This technique is called:

Accepted Answer

Recast

Answer

A recast is an implicit corrective technique where the teacher reformulates the learner's erroneous utterance correctly without explicitly labelling it as an error.

Question 3

Which factor is most associated with 'the critical period hypothesis' in second language acquisition?

Accepted Answer

There is an optimal biological window, typically before puberty, for acquiring native-like pronunciation

Answer

The critical period hypothesis (Lenneberg) proposes that there is a biologically determined period, generally before puberty, during which native-like language acquisition is most achievable.

Question 4

In a CELTA lesson, a teacher asks: 'Is this a polite or informal email?' after learners read a model text. What skill is the teacher developing?

Accepted Answer

Learners' awareness of register and text type

Answer

Asking about politeness and formality directs learners to notice register differences, a key aspect of discourse and sociolinguistic awareness.

Question 5

What is 'group dynamics' and why is it relevant to CELTA classroom management?

Accepted Answer

The interpersonal relationships and social processes within a learner group that affect participation and atmosphere

Answer

Group dynamics refers to the social interactions and relationships among learners that influence motivation, cohesion, and willingness to participate in classroom activities.

(CELTA) Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults Practice Test

(CELTA) Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults Practice Test

CELTA Learners & Teachers 5