ESL ESL Listening & Speaking Skills Development 2

Question 1

Which suprasegmental feature of English affects the meaning of 'I didn't say HE stole it' vs. 'I didn't SAY he stole it'?

Accepted Answer

Sentence stress and emphasis

Answer

Contrastive sentence stress shifts the focus and meaning of a sentence by emphasizing different words.

Question 2

What is a 'discussion web' used for in ESL speaking instruction?

Accepted Answer

A graphic organizer that helps students prepare balanced arguments for a structured discussion

Answer

A discussion web organizes yes/no evidence and prompts learners to articulate and defend positions in academic discussions.

Question 3

What is 'interactional competence' in ESL speaking?

Accepted Answer

The ability to manage conversations, take turns, and co-construct meaning with others

Answer

Interactional competence involves the collaborative skills needed to participate in real conversations—turn-taking, repair, and negotiation of meaning.

Question 4

Why is 'reduced speech' (e.g., 'gonna,' 'wanna,' 'didja') important to teach in ESL listening classes?

Accepted Answer

It reflects how native speakers naturally produce speech at normal speed, essential for authentic listening comprehension

Answer

Connected speech features like reduction and linking are characteristic of natural spoken English and must be taught for real-world listening.

Question 5

What is the purpose of 'role play' activities in an ESL speaking class?

Accepted Answer

To simulate real-world communicative situations and practice context-appropriate language use

Answer

Role play creates a safe space to practice language in simulated real-life scenarios such as job interviews or doctor appointments.

ESL - Certified English as a Second Language Instructor Practice Test

ESL - Certified English as a Second Language Instructor Practice Test

ESL ESL Listening & Speaking Skills Development 2