RICA English Language Learners and Diverse Learners

Question 1

Which approach BEST supports English Language Learners (ELLs) in developing reading skills while also building English language proficiency?

Accepted Answer

Providing comprehensible input at a level slightly above the student's current proficiency, with visual and contextual supports

Answer

Krashen's comprehensible input theory supports providing language-rich instruction slightly beyond current proficiency with scaffolding, which develops both literacy and English simultaneously.

Question 2

A student who is an ELL makes reading errors that reflect the phonological patterns of their home language (L1). A RICA-prepared teacher should:

Accepted Answer

Recognize these errors as natural L1 transfer and use contrastive analysis to address the differences explicitly

Answer

L1 phonological transfer is a normal and expected stage of second language literacy development; explicit instruction on L1/L2 differences supports growth.

Question 3

What is 'BICS' and how does it differ from 'CALP' in the context of ELL literacy instruction?

Accepted Answer

BICS refers to Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (conversational fluency); CALP refers to Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency needed for academic tasks

Answer

Cummins' BICS/CALP distinction highlights that students may sound fluent conversationally (BICS) but still lack the academic language proficiency (CALP) needed for school success.

Question 4

Which strategy is MOST appropriate for supporting ELL students during a whole-class reading lesson?

Accepted Answer

Previewing key vocabulary and text concepts with ELL students before the lesson begins

Answer

Pre-teaching vocabulary and concepts before the lesson allows ELL students to participate more fully in grade-level instruction.

Question 5

According to RICA standards, what is the role of a student's home language (L1) in developing English literacy?

Accepted Answer

Strong L1 literacy skills transfer to and support English literacy development

Answer

Research consistently shows that strong literacy skills in a student's home language transfer to and support second language literacy acquisition.

RICA - Reading Instruction Competence Assessment Practice Test

RICA - Reading Instruction Competence Assessment Practice Test

RICA English Language Learners and Diverse Learners