Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) Practice Test

A teacher encourages students to take risks in their language tasks. What principle of language development does this demonstrate?

1. Successful learners commit to their learning

2. Self-confidence is crucial for success in language acquisition

3. Self-correction of errors enhances learning

4. A moderate to high level of risk-taking aids second-language acquisition

The correct answer is: A moderate to high level of risk-taking aids second-language acquisition

The principle of language development that is demonstrated by a teacher encouraging students to take risks in their language tasks is that a moderate to high level of risk-taking aids second-language acquisition. This approach recognizes that language learning often requires stepping out of one's comfort zone, where students might make mistakes and experiment with new structures or vocabulary. By taking risks, learners engage more deeply with the language, enhancing their ability to use it in real-life situations. Risk-taking allows students to practice speaking, writing, and interacting in the language, which is essential for developing fluency and confidence. When teachers promote a supportive environment for risk-taking, they help remove the fear of making mistakes, which can stifle language development. This positive reinforcement is crucial for learners as it encourages exploration and experimentation, which are vital components of the language acquisition process. In this context, students who feel safe to take risks are more likely to practice and push their limits, leading to greater progress in their language skills.