CILISAT - Community Interpreter Language and Interpreting Skills Assessment Tools Sight Translation Techniques Questions and Answers

Question 1

During a CILISAT sight translation task, you encounter a complex legal term for which you don't know the precise equivalent in the target language. What is the most appropriate initial strategy?

Accepted Answer

Use a general, descriptive phrase that conveys the core meaning of the term.

Answer

Omit the term and continue, to maintain fluency.

Answer

Stop the translation and ask the client or service provider for clarification.

Answer

Invent a new term in the target language that sounds professional.

Question 2

An interpreter is asked to sight translate a three-page medical history form for a new patient while the doctor attends to another patient. Which of the following is the interpreter's most professional response?

Accepted Answer

Politely explain that the provider must be present during sight translation and suggest that such a long, vital document should ideally be translated in writing beforehand.

Answer

Agree to translate the document quickly before the doctor returns.

Answer

Begin translating but stop when the doctor leaves and resume upon their return.

Answer

Refuse to translate the document because it is too long and complex for sight translation.

Question 3

What is the primary purpose of the preparation time (up to 10 minutes) provided before the sight translation portion of the CILISAT exam?

Accepted Answer

To skim the text for general meaning, identify potential challenges, and plan the oral rendition.

Answer

To write out a full, polished written translation of the text.

Answer

To memorize the entire document word-for-word.

Answer

To use a dictionary or electronic device to look up all unfamiliar words.

Question 4

Which of the following skills is uniquely challenged in sight translation compared to consecutive or simultaneous interpreting?

Accepted Answer

Converting a written-mode text into a spoken-mode output in real-time.

Answer

Short-term memory retention.

Answer

Active listening abilities.

Answer

Public speaking and clear enunciation.

Question 5

During a sight translation, the interpreter should prioritize:

Accepted Answer

Conveying the precise meaning and register of the source text accurately and fluently.

Answer

A word-for-word rendering, even if it sounds unnatural in the target language.

Answer

Simplifying complex sentences to make them easier for the listener to understand.

Answer

Speaking as quickly as possible to save time for the service provider.

Question 6

Which of the following documents is generally considered appropriate for sight translation in a community interpreting setting?

Accepted Answer

A short, one-paragraph appointment reminder notice.

Answer

A lengthy and detailed legal contract or will.

Answer

A multi-page clinical trial consent form.

Answer

A complex technical manual for a medical device.