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

Which student in the scenario has the most established literacy skills in their native language before entering the U.S. school system?

1. Sofia

2. Maricela

3. Gerardo

4. Charity

The correct answer is: Gerardo

In assessing which student has the most established literacy skills in their native language before entering the U.S. school system, it is essential to consider several factors that contribute to literacy development. Gerardo, identified as having the most established literacy skills, likely comes from a background where reading and writing in his native language were emphasized, allowing him to develop a solid foundation in literacy prior to his transition to the U.S. school system. Established literacy skills encompass not just the ability to read and write, but also comprehension and the ability to engage with complex texts. This proficiency indicates that Gerardo may have received formal education in his native language, participated in literacy-rich environments, and been encouraged to develop skills through reading literature or academic texts, thus equipping him for success in English language learning and adapting to a new educational context. In contrast, the other students might not have had the same level of exposure or formal education in their native languages, which could lead to varying degrees of literacy proficiency upon arrival in the U.S. Their experiences and backgrounds would be crucial in understanding their literacy levels, but Gerardo's background stands out as the one preparing him best for the challenges of learning a new language in a school environment.