Pedagogy and Professional Responsibilities (PPR) TExES Practice Exam

What strategy can best simplify language for English-language learners?

1. Eliminating nonverbal facial expressions and gestures

2. Avoiding the use of cognates during group work

3. Reducing the number of pronouns used in instructions

4. Using age-appropriate slang commonly spoken by students

The correct answer is: Reducing the number of pronouns used in instructions

Reducing the number of pronouns used in instructions can significantly simplify language for English-language learners. These learners often struggle with pronouns because they may not have a solid understanding of the context or the specific subjects to which the pronouns refer. By decreasing the reliance on pronouns, teachers can make sentences clearer and more direct, which facilitates better comprehension. For example, instead of saying, "If you see him, tell him to come here," a clearer instruction would be "If you see the teacher, tell the teacher to come here." This clarity is particularly essential in a learning environment where every word plays a critical role in comprehension. In contrast, eliminating nonverbal facial expressions and gestures limits one of the most effective forms of communication. Visual cues and body language can help contextualize verbal instructions and enhance understanding. Avoiding the use of cognates restricts learners from utilizing their existing knowledge of similar words in both their native languages and English, which can aid in vocabulary acquisition. Finally, using age-appropriate slang may not be suitable as it can introduce unfamiliar language that may confuse learners further rather than aid their understanding.