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

What is the most appropriate response for a teacher when a Vietnamese student wants her mother to wear American-style clothing?

1. Teach a social studies unit to the entire class on Vietnamese cultural traditions.

2. Arrange for the students, her mother, and a translator to meet with a school counselor to discuss the issue of cultural identity.

3. Invite parents and staff from a variety of cultural groups to wear traditional dress to the occasion.

4. Encourage the student to rethink her attitude toward traditional dress.

The correct answer is: Invite parents and staff from a variety of cultural groups to wear traditional dress to the occasion.

Inviting parents and staff from various cultural groups to wear traditional dress serves multiple purposes that align with fostering an inclusive environment. This approach promotes cultural awareness among students and respects the diverse backgrounds of both students and their families. By showcasing traditional attire from different cultures, it allows the Vietnamese student to express her cultural heritage while also embracing American styles. This response creates a celebratory atmosphere that honors cultural diversity rather than positioning one style of clothing over another as superior. In doing so, it encourages students to appreciate and understand the significance of their own and others' cultural traditions, facilitating a healthier dialogue about identity and self-expression. This method also has the potential to positively influence the student's perception of her mother's traditional clothing, making her more proud of her cultural roots while understanding the broader context of style and identity in a multicultural society.