FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 Practice Test

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  • 1/27 Questions

    A 9th-grade English teacher asks each student in class to write a persuasive essay that argues that organic produce is better than nonorganic produce. During the drafting phase of the writing process, students work in pairs, asking and answering a series of questions about the topic. Which of the following questions will best help students support their arguments effectively in writing?

    • How does organic produce differ from nonorganic produce?
    • Why does some organic produce taste better raw than cooked?
    • When did the local supermarket begin stocking organic produce?
    • What types of organic produce are the most difficult to cultivate?
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About This Quiz

This practice test is designed for those preparing for the FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 certification, focusing on language arts pedagogy and curriculum integration.

FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 Practice Test - Quiz

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  • 2. 

    A 6th-grade language arts teacher is developing a unit on animal habitats in temperate rain forests. Which activity would be most appropriate for addressing the social needs of the students?

    • Conducting individual library research

    • Discussing a problem in a large-group setting

    • Participating in a cooperative learning activity

    • Interviewing an adult with a partner

    Correct Answer
    A. Participating in a cooperative learning activity
    Explanation
    Participating in a cooperative learning activity would be most appropriate for addressing the social needs of the students. This activity allows students to work together in small groups, promoting communication, collaboration, and teamwork. It provides an opportunity for students to interact with their peers, share ideas, and learn from each other. This cooperative learning activity not only addresses the social needs of the students but also enhances their learning experience by engaging them actively in the topic of animal habitats in temperate rain forests.

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  • 3. 

    Which activity would show the best way to compare and contrast characters in literature?

    • Two-column notes

    • Venn diagram

    • I-chart

    • KWL chart

    Correct Answer
    A. Venn diagram
    Explanation
    A Venn diagram would be the best way to compare and contrast characters in literature because it allows for a visual representation of the similarities and differences between the characters. The two circles in the diagram can be used to list the characteristics of each character, and the overlapping area can be used to identify the traits that they share. This method helps to organize the information and make it easier to analyze the similarities and differences between the characters.

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  • 4. 

    Which is the best source of information for a 5th-grade language arts teacher who is planning instruction for a student with an identified learning disability?

    • Results from a teacher-designed interest inventory administered to the student

    • The student's IEP

    • Results from an informal reading inventory administered to the student

    • The student's previous classroom teachers

    Correct Answer
    A. The student's IEP
    Explanation
    The student's IEP (Individualized Education Program) is the best source of information for a 5th-grade language arts teacher who is planning instruction for a student with an identified learning disability. An IEP is a legally binding document that outlines the specific needs and accommodations for a student with a learning disability. It provides detailed information about the student's learning goals, strengths, weaknesses, and any necessary modifications or accommodations that should be made in the classroom. Therefore, the teacher can refer to the student's IEP to tailor instruction and support the student's individual needs effectively.

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  • 5. 

    An 8th-grade language arts teacher would like to help students improve their narrative writing by including more vivid details. Which of the following activities would best help the teacher achieve this goal?

    • Giving a mini lesson on sentence structures and writing sample sentences on the board

    • Conducting a group activity in which students revise sample paragraphs by adding descriptive content

    • Showing students how to use reference materials, such as a thesaurus, dictionary, and atlas

    • Assigning students reading that exposes them to various literary genres

    Correct Answer
    A. Conducting a group activity in which students revise sample paragraphs by adding descriptive content
    Explanation
    Conducting a group activity in which students revise sample paragraphs by adding descriptive content would best help the teacher achieve the goal of improving narrative writing with more vivid details. This activity allows students to actively engage with the writing process and practice incorporating descriptive language into their own work. By working collaboratively, students can also learn from each other's ideas and perspectives, further enhancing their understanding of how to use vivid details effectively in their writing. This hands-on approach encourages creativity and provides practical experience in enhancing narrative writing skills.

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  • 6. 

    A middle school language arts teacher writes informal notes to students that contain questions about subject matter covered in class. The students, in turn, write back to the teacher with answers and questions of their own. This is an example of which of the following methods of assessing student understanding in an integrated language arts class?

    • Dialogue journal

    • Portfolio

    • Anecdotal record

    • Teacher conference

    Correct Answer
    A. Dialogue journal
    Explanation
    The given scenario describes a situation where the teacher and students engage in written communication, exchanging questions and answers about the subject matter covered in class. This method of assessing student understanding is known as a dialogue journal. In a dialogue journal, students have the opportunity to express their thoughts, ask questions, and receive feedback from the teacher, fostering a two-way communication and promoting deeper understanding of the material. This method allows the teacher to assess student comprehension, identify misconceptions, and provide targeted support.

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  • 7. 

    A team of 7th-grade teachers would like to incorporate technology into a unit that includes science and language arts. Which of the following technology-based activities provides the most opportunities for interdisciplinary experiences?

    • Conducting Internet searches for information about marine life on Florida's Atlantic coast

    • Creating an interactive Web site about ecosystems found in the Florida Everglades

    • Using computer software to produce statistical charts that track the increase in tourism in Florida

    • Generating on computers different types of demographic charts of major Florida cities

    Correct Answer
    A. Creating an interactive Web site about ecosystems found in the Florida Everglades
    Explanation
    Creating an interactive website about ecosystems found in the Florida Everglades provides the most opportunities for interdisciplinary experiences. This activity combines technology, science, and language arts. Students will need to research and gather information about the ecosystems, which involves science and internet research skills. They will also need to effectively communicate their findings and create content for the website, which involves language arts and technology skills. Additionally, creating an interactive website allows students to present information in an engaging and interactive way, further enhancing their understanding of the subject matter.

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  • 8. 

    An 8th-grade language arts teacher is about to start a unit on ancient Greek drama. To introduce the unit, the teacher plans to have his students view a portion of a videotaped performance of Sophocles' Oedipus Rex. Which of the following previewing strategies would be most effective for the teacher to use with his students to help them increase their understanding of what they will see in the video?

    • Discussing any prior knowledge that they have of ancient Greek drama

    • Reading encyclopedia articles about ancient Greek drama

    • Predicting what will happen in this one particular ancient Greek drama

    • Looking up words frequently used in discussions of ancient Greek drama

    Correct Answer
    A. Discussing any prior knowledge that they have of ancient Greek drama
    Explanation
    Discussing any prior knowledge that they have of ancient Greek drama would be the most effective previewing strategy for the teacher to use with his students. This strategy allows the students to engage with the topic and activate their background knowledge, which will enhance their understanding of the video. By discussing their prior knowledge, the students can make connections and draw upon their existing understanding of ancient Greek drama, which will help them make meaning of what they see in the video. This strategy also promotes critical thinking and class participation.

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  • 9. 

    Over the course of a school term, students have undertaken many writing projects. The most effective way to assess individual student growth in writing through the term would be

    • Cumulative assessment.

    • Peer assessment.

    • Portfolio assessment.

    • Self-assessment.

    Correct Answer
    A. Portfolio assessment.
    Explanation
    Portfolio assessment is the most effective way to assess individual student growth in writing through the term because it allows students to showcase their best work and progress over time. By collecting and reviewing a variety of writing samples from different assignments, teachers can gain a comprehensive understanding of each student's strengths, weaknesses, and growth in writing. This method also encourages self-reflection and goal-setting as students curate their own portfolios, leading to increased ownership and motivation in their writing development. Peer assessment, cumulative assessment, and self-assessment may have their merits, but portfolio assessment offers a holistic and authentic evaluation of student progress in writing.

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  • 10. 

    Which of the following instructional goals for a 7th-grade language arts class is aligned with the emotional development of students at that grade level?

    • Keeping students focused by stressing individual work rather than collaborative learning

    • Guiding students through a semester-long independent research project culminating in an oral presentation

    • Fostering disciplined teamwork by adapting the rules of formal debate for use during class discussions

    • Encouraging students to express their perceptions, ideas, and feelings in personal narratives

    Correct Answer
    A. Encouraging students to express their perceptions, ideas, and feelings in personal narratives
    Explanation
    The goal of encouraging students to express their perceptions, ideas, and feelings in personal narratives is aligned with the emotional development of students at the 7th-grade level. This goal allows students to explore and reflect on their own emotions and experiences, promoting self-awareness and self-expression. It also encourages empathy and understanding as students share their narratives with others. This aligns with the emotional development of 7th graders who are transitioning into adolescence and often grappling with a range of emotions and personal experiences.

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  • 11. 

    According to the 2003 report The Neglected "R": The Need for a Writing Revolution, best practice writing instruction mainly includes

    • Timed writing.

    • Grammar instruction.

    • Assigned topics.

    • Writing workshop.

    Correct Answer
    A. Writing workshop.
    Explanation
    According to the 2003 report "The Neglected 'R': The Need for a Writing Revolution," best practice writing instruction mainly includes a writing workshop. This means that instead of focusing solely on timed writing or grammar instruction, the report suggests that students should engage in a writing workshop where they have the opportunity to explore different writing topics and receive feedback from their peers and instructors. This approach allows students to develop their writing skills in a more holistic and creative manner, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation for the writing process.

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  • 12. 

    The works of which of the following authors would provide middle school students with the best introduction to the concept of allegory?

    • Mildred D. Taylor

    • C.S. Lewis

    • Madeleine L'Engle

    • Washington Irving

    Correct Answer
    A. C.S. Lewis
    Explanation
    C.S. Lewis would provide middle school students with the best introduction to the concept of allegory. Lewis is known for his series of books called "The Chronicles of Narnia," which are filled with allegorical elements. The stories in this series use fictional characters and events to represent deeper, symbolic meanings. By reading Lewis's works, students can explore the concept of allegory and learn how authors use it to convey messages and themes in their writing.

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  • 13. 

    A 5th-grade language arts teacher notices that a particular student always points to each word on a page when reading silently to himself. The teacher uses this information as a basis for designing activities for the student that will help him develop word recognition skills and fluency. The technique that the teacher uses in this case to assess the student's reading needs and design instruction is called

    • Running record.

    • Observation.

    • Learning log.

    • Checklist.

    Correct Answer
    A. Observation.
    Explanation
    The teacher in this scenario is using their observation of the student's behavior (pointing to each word while reading silently) to assess the student's reading needs and design instruction. This indicates that the teacher is actively watching and noting the student's actions, which is the essence of observation. The other options, such as running record, learning log, and checklist, do not involve directly observing the student's behavior in the same way.

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  • 14. 

    Which of the following language arts activities is facilitated by a word processing program?

    • Diagramming sentences

    • Free writing

    • Determining parts of speech

    • Grammar exercises

    Correct Answer
    A. Free writing
    Explanation
    A word processing program facilitates free writing because it provides a platform for individuals to type and edit their thoughts and ideas without any restrictions. It allows for easy editing, formatting, and organizing of the written content. This activity encourages creativity and self-expression as individuals can freely write without worrying about grammar or structure. Additionally, a word processing program offers features like spell check and word count, which can assist in the writing process.

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  • 15. 

    According to the report Reading Next, literacy achievement, regardless of instructional innovations, cannot be obtained without a foundation of

    • Professional development.

    • Administrative initiative.

    • District funding.

    • Faculty consensus.

    Correct Answer
    A. Professional development.
    Explanation
    The report Reading Next states that literacy achievement cannot be achieved without a foundation of professional development. This means that no matter what new teaching methods or strategies are implemented, without ongoing training and support for educators, students will not be able to improve their literacy skills. Professional development ensures that teachers are equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively teach literacy, leading to better outcomes for students. Therefore, professional development is crucial in achieving literacy achievement.

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  • 16. 

    A middle school language arts teacher would like to help students understand how a narrative point of view affects the message conveyed in a literary text. Given this purpose, the teacher should have his students do which of the following activities?

    • Select a character from the text for whom they prepare a detailed personal history

    • Highlight all the words and phrases in a text that reflect a particular perspective

    • Select a part of a text to rewrite from the perspective of a particular character

    • Form small groups to dramatize for various audiences the key actions and events in a text

    Correct Answer
    A. Select a part of a text to rewrite from the perspective of a particular character
    Explanation
    To help students understand how narrative point of view affects the message conveyed in a literary text, the teacher should have his students select a part of a text to rewrite from the perspective of a particular character. This activity allows students to analyze the impact of different perspectives on the story and the message it conveys. By rewriting a section from a different character's point of view, students can explore how the narrative changes and gain a deeper understanding of the role of perspective in storytelling.

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  • 17. 

    Which of the following English language learners will be most in need of individualized instruction for the development of English literacy?

    • A student who reads and writes a language with a Roman alphabet

    • A student who reads and writes a language with a non-alphabetic script

    • A student who speaks a language for which there is no written form

    • A student who reads and writes a language with a non-Roman alphabet

    Correct Answer
    A. A student who speaks a language for which there is no written form
    Explanation
    A student who speaks a language for which there is no written form will be most in need of individualized instruction for the development of English literacy. This is because they do not have any prior experience with reading and writing in any language, which means they will need to start from scratch in learning the basics of English literacy. The other options, such as a student who reads and writes a language with a Roman alphabet or a non-Roman alphabet, already have some foundational skills in reading and writing, which can be transferred to learning English literacy.

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  • 18. 

    A middle school integrated language arts teacher would best promote lifelong learning among students by assigning a(an)

    • Character analysis.

    • I-Search paper.

    • Summary of a text chapter.

    • Timed expository essay.

    Correct Answer
    A. I-Search paper.
    Explanation
    An I-Search paper would best promote lifelong learning among students because it encourages them to explore a topic of personal interest and conduct in-depth research. This type of assignment promotes critical thinking, independent inquiry, and self-directed learning, which are important skills for lifelong learning. By choosing their own topic and conducting research, students are more likely to be engaged and motivated to continue learning beyond the classroom. Additionally, the I-Search paper allows students to develop skills in information literacy, research methods, and effective communication, all of which are essential for lifelong learning.

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  • 19. 

    A job candidate is writing a cover letter to accompany her résumé. The letter is addressed to Michael Esparza, whom the candidate has not met or spoken to on the telephone. Which of the following salutations would be most appropriate for the candidate to use in her cover letter?

    • Hello, Mr. Esparza

    • Dear Mr. Esparza:

    • Dear Mike Esparza,

    • To: Michael Esparza

    Correct Answer
    A. Dear Mr. Esparza:
    Explanation
    The most appropriate salutation for the candidate to use in her cover letter is "Dear Mr. Esparza:" This salutation is formal and respectful, using the appropriate title of "Mr." followed by the last name of the recipient. It is a professional and polite way to address someone in a business context, especially when the candidate has not met or spoken to the recipient before.

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  • 20. 

    Which statement describes the role of prior knowledge in students' literacy development?

    • Students' level of prior knowledge determines their ability to participate in meaningful reading experiences.

    • Prior knowledge facilitates the transfer of students' thinking processes to a conscious level.

    • Students' ability to remember and recall new information is directly related to the extent of their prior knowledge.

    • Prior knowledge acts as a lens through which students view and comprehend new information.

    Correct Answer
    A. Prior knowledge acts as a lens through which students view and comprehend new information.
    Explanation
    Prior knowledge acts as a lens through which students view and comprehend new information. This means that students' existing knowledge and experiences shape how they understand and make sense of new information. Prior knowledge helps students make connections, draw upon relevant information, and make predictions while reading. It allows them to engage in deeper comprehension and critical thinking. Without prior knowledge, students may struggle to understand new concepts and may not be able to fully participate in meaningful reading experiences.

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  • 21. 

    A middle school dedicated to constructing and enacting cross-curricular units integrating language arts into all aspects of the curriculum would find which of the following most helpful in achieving its goal?

    • Teaming

    • Block scheduling

    • Differentiated instruction

    • Leveled grouping

    Correct Answer
    A. Teaming
    Explanation
    Teaming would be most helpful in achieving the middle school's goal of constructing and enacting cross-curricular units integrating language arts into all aspects of the curriculum. Teaming involves teachers collaborating and working together in interdisciplinary teams, which allows for the integration of different subjects and the sharing of expertise. This approach would facilitate the development of cross-curricular units that incorporate language arts into various subjects, enhancing students' learning experience and promoting a holistic understanding of the curriculum.

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  • 22. 

    Middle school language arts teachers use semantic mapping and webbing to help develop students' cognitive abilities primarily because these methods

    • Provide a framework for describing and analyzing language patterns.

    • Focus on concepts that are unique to each content area and are best studied in discrete contexts.

    • Facilitate the comprehension of unfamiliar words and phrases.

    • Encourage the integration, interaction, and understanding of ideas from various content areas.

    Correct Answer
    A. Encourage the integration, interaction, and understanding of ideas from various content areas.
    Explanation
    Semantic mapping and webbing techniques encourage the integration, interaction, and understanding of ideas from various content areas. By visually organizing concepts and their relationships, students are able to make connections between different topics and subjects. This helps to enhance their cognitive abilities by promoting critical thinking and analytical skills. Additionally, these methods also foster creativity and allow students to explore different perspectives and viewpoints, leading to a deeper understanding of language patterns and concepts.

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  • 23. 

    Which of the following is a characteristic of emergent literacy?

    • Understanding that print in English is read from left to right

    • Using context clues to determine the meaning of a word in a text

    • Applying knowledge of common spelling patterns in English to decode words in a text

    • Being able to read aloud from a text quickly and accurately

    Correct Answer
    A. Understanding that print in English is read from left to right
    Explanation
    Emergent literacy refers to the early stages of literacy development before formal instruction begins. Understanding that print in English is read from left to right is a characteristic of emergent literacy because it demonstrates an awareness of the basic directionality and orientation of text. This understanding is a foundational skill that children acquire as they begin to explore and interact with written language. It sets the stage for further reading and writing development by establishing the fundamental concept of how text is organized and read in English.

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  • 24. 

    Students in an 8th-grade science class are learning new vocabulary related to the human skeletal system. Which of the following instructional strategies would best help students understand and use the new vocabulary?

    • Using a cloze exercise to teach the vocabulary in context

    • Showing students what reference sources are useful for science research

    • Providing a full human skeleton with all bones labeled

    • Surveying students to determine any prior knowledge of anatomical terms and concepts

    Correct Answer
    A. Using a cloze exercise to teach the vocabulary in context
    Explanation
    Using a cloze exercise to teach the vocabulary in context would best help students understand and use the new vocabulary. A cloze exercise involves removing certain words from a text and asking students to fill in the blanks with the appropriate vocabulary words. This strategy allows students to actively engage with the vocabulary in a meaningful context, helping them to better understand and remember the terms. It also provides practice in using the vocabulary in a sentence, reinforcing their understanding and ability to use the words correctly.

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  • 25. 

    Which of the following would be a language arts teacher's best source of information about students' personal experiences for the purpose of promoting their literacy development?

    • Portfolios of students' work in different content areas

    • Student interest surveys

    • Anecdotal records from students' previous teachers

    • Students' educational records

    Correct Answer
    A. Student interest surveys
    Explanation
    A language arts teacher's best source of information about students' personal experiences for the purpose of promoting their literacy development would be student interest surveys. These surveys allow students to express their interests, preferences, and personal experiences, which can help the teacher tailor their instruction to meet the individual needs and interests of each student. By understanding students' personal experiences, the teacher can select reading materials, writing prompts, and activities that are relevant and engaging, thus promoting their literacy development. Portfolios of students' work in different content areas, anecdotal records from previous teachers, and students' educational records may provide some information about students, but they may not specifically address their personal experiences and interests.

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  • 26. 

    A middle school language arts teacher who has been teaching for several years wants to learn about the latest research and practices in the field of teaching middle grades English. Which publication will best serve the teacher's needs?

    • Inside Out

    • In the Middle

    • Voices from the Middle

    • English Journal

    Correct Answer
    A. Voices from the Middle
    Explanation
    "Voices from the Middle" is the best publication for the middle school language arts teacher to learn about the latest research and practices in teaching middle grades English. This publication specifically focuses on middle school education and provides valuable insights, strategies, and resources for language arts teachers. It is likely to offer relevant and up-to-date information that can enhance the teacher's teaching methods and keep them informed about the latest trends in their field.

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  • 27. 

    Middle school students are reading a coming-of-age novel that weaves in traditional stories from the protagonist's cultural background. What would be the most effective strategy to prepare the students to write a personal narrative that echoes a theme introduced in one of the traditional stories?

    • Inviting a storyteller from that tradition to meet with the class

    • Reading an anthropological essay about the role of storytelling in the culture

    • Sharing artifacts that figure prominently in the traditional stories

    • Reenacting scenes from the novel that are critical to the outcome of the story

    Correct Answer
    A. Inviting a storyteller from that tradition to meet with the class
    Explanation
    Inviting a storyteller from that tradition to meet with the class would be the most effective strategy to prepare the students to write a personal narrative that echoes a theme introduced in one of the traditional stories. By interacting with a storyteller firsthand, the students can gain a deeper understanding of the cultural background and the themes explored in the traditional stories. This direct interaction can provide valuable insights and inspiration for the students to incorporate into their own personal narratives. It also allows for a more immersive and authentic learning experience, enhancing their ability to connect with the themes and write meaningful narratives.

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  • Current Version
  • Nov 14, 2023
    Quiz Edited by
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  • Jul 03, 2009
    Quiz Created by
    Apremo

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