CTEL Second Language Acquisition Theories Questions and Answers

Question 1

A high school English Language Learner from Mexico, who has lived in the U.S. for two years, socializes with ease and speaks English fluently with his peers.
However, he struggles to write academic essays and comprehend grade-level science textbooks.
This student's situation is best explained by which of the following concepts?

Accepted Answer

The distinction between BICS and CALP

Answer

The Natural Order Hypothesis

Answer

The Affective Filter Hypothesis

Answer

The Zone of Proximal Development

Question 2

According to Stephen Krashen's Monitor Model, which hypothesis suggests that language acquisition is most effective when a learner is exposed to language that is slightly beyond their current level of competence?

Accepted Answer

The Input Hypothesis (i+1)

Answer

The Acquisition-Learning Hypothesis

Answer

The Natural Order Hypothesis

Answer

The Monitor Hypothesis

Question 3

A teacher notices that a new student, an English learner, is very hesitant to speak in class. The student seems anxious, lacks self-confidence, and is afraid of making mistakes. According to Krashen, which concept is likely hindering this student's language acquisition?

Accepted Answer

A high affective filter

Answer

Lack of comprehensible input

Answer

The silent period

Answer

An overactive monitor

Question 4

Mr. Chen is teaching a complex grammar point to his intermediate English learners. He first models the structure, then has students work in pairs to complete a guided practice activity, and finally asks them to use the structure independently in a short writing task. This teaching strategy aligns with which theoretical concept?

Accepted Answer

Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD)

Answer

Universal Grammar

Answer

Behaviorism

Answer

The Output Hypothesis

Question 5

The theory of Universal Grammar, proposed by Noam Chomsky, suggests that:

Accepted Answer

all languages share a common underlying structure and humans are born with an innate language acquisition device.

Answer

language learning is a process of habit formation through imitation and reinforcement.

Answer

social interaction is the primary driver of language development.

Answer

learners acquire grammatical structures in a predictable, universal order.

Question 6

Which of the following classroom activities would be MOST effective for lowering the affective filter for beginning English learners?

Accepted Answer

Using games, songs, and pair work to practice new vocabulary.

Answer

Requiring students to recite a memorized dialogue in front of the class.

Answer

Administering a timed grammar quiz to assess learning.

Answer

Correcting every oral error the students make immediately.