FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 Practice Test 2018

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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.

About This Quiz

This practice test is designed for those preparing for the FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 certification. It assesses key skills in semantic mapping, cooperative learning, emotional development through narratives, cross-curricular integration, and effective writing instruction.

FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 Practice Test 2018 - 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 collaboration, communication, and teamwork. It provides an opportunity for students to interact with their peers, share ideas, and learn from each other. This not only enhances their social skills but also fosters a sense of belonging and community within the classroom. Additionally, cooperative learning activities encourage active engagement and participation, making the learning experience more enjoyable and meaningful for the students.

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3.

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

Encouraging students to express their perceptions, ideas, and feelings in personal narratives aligns with the emotional development of 7th-grade students. This instructional goal allows students to explore and reflect on their own emotions, experiences, and thoughts, promoting self-awareness and self-expression. It supports their emotional growth by providing a platform for them to share their personal stories and connect with others on a deeper level. Additionally, this goal fosters empathy and understanding as students listen to and appreciate each other's narratives, creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment.

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4.

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 refers to the practice of organizing students and teachers into small groups or teams, allowing them to work collaboratively on projects and assignments. In the context of a middle school dedicated to integrating language arts into all aspects of the curriculum, teaming would be most helpful in achieving this goal. By working in teams, students can engage in cross-curricular projects that require them to use language arts skills in various subjects. It promotes collaboration, communication, and critical thinking, which are essential for integrating language arts effectively. Additionally, teaming allows teachers to coordinate and plan interdisciplinary units, ensuring a cohesive and integrated approach to teaching language arts.

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5.

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

Writing workshop is considered a best practice in writing instruction according to the 2003 report "The Neglected 'R': The Need for a Writing Revolution". This approach allows students to engage in a collaborative and interactive environment where they can receive feedback from their peers and the teacher. It promotes creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression, as well as providing opportunities for revision and improvement. Unlike timed writing or assigned topics, writing workshop allows students to explore their own interests and ideas, leading to more authentic and meaningful writing experiences. Grammar instruction is also important but is just one component of a comprehensive writing workshop approach.

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6.

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" suggests that in order to achieve literacy achievement, regardless of instructional innovations, a foundation of professional development is necessary. This means that teachers need to continuously improve their skills and knowledge through training and learning opportunities in order to effectively teach literacy to students. Without professional development, instructional innovations alone cannot lead to improved literacy outcomes. Therefore, professional development is crucial for achieving literacy achievement.

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7.

Identify the best interdisciplinary project to incorporate history, mathematics, and language arts.
- Summarizing the story of the mathematician and the mathematical problem he solved in the movie, A Beautiful Mind
- Creating a timeline depicting various mathematicians and examples of the mathematical problems they solved
- Writing a story about a time-traveler who visits famous mathematicians and helps them solve mathematical problems
- Creating a poster about a famous mathematician and the steps she took to solve a famous mathematical problem
Correct Answer

A. Writing a story about a time-traveler who visits famous mathematicians and helps them solve mathematical problems

Explanation

This project incorporates history by exploring the lives of famous mathematicians, mathematics by focusing on the problems they solved, and language arts through the creation of a story. The story of a time-traveler visiting mathematicians adds a creative and engaging element to the project, allowing students to explore mathematical concepts in a unique and imaginative way.

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8.

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 would provide the most opportunities for interdisciplinary experiences. This activity combines science and language arts by requiring students to research and gather information about the ecosystems, and then use their language arts skills to present the information in an interactive and engaging way on a website. Additionally, creating a website involves technology skills, further incorporating technology into the unit. This activity allows students to explore and integrate knowledge from multiple disciplines, making it the most suitable choice for interdisciplinary experiences.

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9.

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 the needs and interests of middle school English language arts teachers. It provides articles, research studies, and practical strategies that are relevant and applicable to the teacher's specific field. "Inside Out" and "English Journal" may cover a broader range of topics and grade levels, while "In the Middle" may not be as up-to-date with the latest research and practices.

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1
10.

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 the constraints of pen and paper. It allows for easy organization, revision, and formatting of the written content, making it an effective tool for creative writing and brainstorming.

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11.

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 students to explore a topic of personal interest and conduct in-depth research. This type of assignment fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and independent learning skills. By allowing students to choose their own topics and take ownership of their learning, an I-Search paper promotes a lifelong love for learning and encourages students to continue pursuing knowledge even outside the classroom.

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12.

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 is the best way to compare and contrast characters in literature because it allows for a visual representation of the similarities and differences between two or more characters. The overlapping circles in a Venn diagram can be used to show the shared characteristics of the characters, while the separate sections can be used to highlight their unique traits. This visual tool helps readers to easily identify and analyze the similarities and differences in the personalities, motivations, and actions of the characters, providing a comprehensive understanding of their relationships and roles in the story.

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13.

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 a narrative point of view affects the message conveyed in a literary text, the teacher should have them select a part of the 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 how it influences the overall message. By rewriting the text from a character's point of view, students can gain a deeper understanding of how the narrative voice shapes the story and its meaning.

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14.

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 reading and writing 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 conventions of written language. This knowledge is an important foundation for later reading skills and helps children make sense of the text as they start to decode and comprehend written words.

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15.

A teacher is listening to a child read a grade-level passage aloud for 1 minute. As the student reads, the teacher calculates the number of words read correctly per minute to help determine the student's reading ability. What is the name of this activity?
- Timed repeated reading
- Paired reading
- Shared reading
- Audio-assisted reading
Correct Answer

A. Timed repeated reading

Explanation

Timed repeated reading is the name of the activity where a teacher listens to a student read a grade-level passage aloud for 1 minute and calculates the number of words read correctly per minute. This activity is used to determine the student's reading ability and measure their progress over time.

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16.

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. Since there is no written form of their native language, they will have no prior experience or foundation in reading and writing. This student will require additional support and guidance to learn the English alphabet, phonics, and basic literacy skills. The other options involve students who already have some experience with written language, whether it is a Roman alphabet, non-alphabetic script, or non-Roman alphabet.

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17.

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

Student interest surveys would be a language arts teacher's best source of information about students' personal experiences for the purpose of promoting their literacy development. These surveys provide valuable insights into students' likes, dislikes, hobbies, and preferences, allowing the teacher to tailor their instruction to the students' interests. By incorporating topics and materials that students are genuinely interested in, the teacher can engage them more effectively and foster a love for reading and writing. This approach promotes literacy development by making the learning experience more relevant and meaningful to the students.

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18.

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 their understanding and interpretation of new information. It helps them make connections, draw conclusions, and make sense of what they are reading. Prior knowledge allows students to bring their background knowledge to the forefront of their thinking, enabling them to engage in deeper and more meaningful reading experiences.

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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 and last name of the recipient. It is a professional and polite way to address someone whom the candidate has not met or spoken to on the telephone.

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20.

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?
Correct Answer

A. How does organic produce differ from nonorganic produce?

Explanation

The question "How does organic produce differ from nonorganic produce?" will best help students support their arguments effectively in writing because it prompts them to explore and analyze the specific differences between organic and nonorganic produce. This will enable them to provide evidence and examples to support their claims about the superiority of organic produce. The other questions are not directly related to comparing organic and nonorganic produce and may not provide relevant information for their persuasive essays.

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21.

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 book "The Chronicles of Narnia," which uses allegory to convey deeper meanings and moral lessons. The series is widely read and enjoyed by young readers, making it an excellent choice for introducing the concept of allegory in a relatable and engaging way.

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22.

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 activate their prior knowledge and make connections to the upcoming video. By discussing what they already know, the students can build a foundation of understanding and engage more actively with the content. This strategy also helps the teacher gauge the students' existing knowledge and tailor the lesson accordingly. Reading encyclopedia articles, predicting the plot, or looking up words may provide some additional context, but they do not necessarily tap into the students' prior knowledge and personal experiences.

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23.

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 best source of information for a 5th-grade language arts teacher who is planning instruction for a student with an identified learning disability is the student's IEP. The IEP (Individualized Education Program) is a legally binding document that outlines the specific learning goals, accommodations, and modifications that are necessary for the student's academic success. It provides detailed information about the student's learning disability, strengths, weaknesses, and recommended instructional strategies. Therefore, the teacher can refer to the IEP to gain a comprehensive understanding of the student's needs and tailor instruction accordingly.

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24.

A television advertisement for a remote-controlled toy car shows a 5-year-old boy playing with the car in a kitchen setting. The boy has set up ramps that he then drives the car over to make a series of jumps and crashes. Which of the following changes to the advertisement would make the toy car more appealing to boys ages 7 to 10?
- Showing a 12-year-old boy playing enthusiastically with the toy car
- Adding soothing orchestral music and a long close-up shot of the toy car
- Having a voice-over describe the battery requirements of the toy car
- Showing a 7-year-old boy smiling as he takes the toy car out of its box
Correct Answer

A. Showing a 12-year-old boy playing enthusiastically with the toy car

Explanation

The correct answer is showing a 12-year-old boy playing enthusiastically with the toy car. This change would make the toy car more appealing to boys ages 7 to 10 because they would see an older boy enjoying and playing with the toy car, which could make them feel more interested and excited about it. Older boys often serve as role models for younger boys, so seeing a 12-year-old boy playing with the toy car would make it seem more age-appropriate and cool.

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25.

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 students' narrative writing with more vivid details. This activity allows students to actively engage in the process of adding descriptive content to their writing, which can enhance the overall quality and impact of their narratives. By working collaboratively and receiving feedback from their peers, students can develop their skills in using vivid details effectively. This activity also provides an opportunity for students to learn from each other and gain a deeper understanding of how descriptive language can enhance their writing.

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26.

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 be the best instructional strategy to help students understand and use the new vocabulary. A cloze exercise involves removing certain words from a passage and having students fill in the missing words using context clues. This strategy allows students to actively engage with the vocabulary in a meaningful way, as they have to use their understanding of the passage to correctly complete the exercise. It also helps students make connections between the new vocabulary and its usage in context, which enhances their comprehension and retention of the terms.

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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 the cultural tradition 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 meeting with a storyteller, the students would have the opportunity to listen to authentic stories from the culture, gaining a deeper understanding of the themes and values embedded within them. This firsthand experience would provide the students with inspiration and insight to craft their own personal narratives that reflect the cultural background and themes introduced in the traditional stories.

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1
28.

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. This method allows students to compile their best pieces of writing and showcase their progress over time. It provides a comprehensive view of their skills, development, and improvement in writing. Peer assessment may not accurately reflect individual growth, as it relies on the judgment of other students. Cumulative assessment may not capture the progression of skills over time. Self-assessment may lack objectivity and may not provide a holistic view of growth. Therefore, portfolio assessment is the most suitable option for assessing individual student growth in writing.

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29.

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 correct answer is observation. The teacher is using their observation of the student always pointing to each word on a page when reading silently as a basis for designing activities to help the student develop word recognition skills and fluency. This shows that the teacher is using their observation skills to assess the student's reading needs and design appropriate instruction.

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30.

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

In this scenario, the teacher writes informal notes to students with questions, and the students respond with their own answers and questions. This back-and-forth exchange between the teacher and students through writing is characteristic of a dialogue journal. A dialogue journal is a method of assessing student understanding in an integrated language arts class by promoting communication and reflection through written dialogue. It allows students to express their thoughts, ask questions, and receive feedback from the teacher, fostering a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

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31.

For a unit on the novel Touching Spirit Bear, the teacher prepared an activity that required his 8th-grade students to work in pairs to generate and discuss pros and cons of the judge's decision regarding the main character. This was an effective activity because young adolescents are likely to be in the process of
- Becoming concrete thinkers.
- Emulating authority figures.
- Becoming egocentric in their thinking.
- Developing formal reasoning.
Correct Answer

A. Developing formal reasoning.

Explanation

This activity was effective because it required the students to generate and discuss pros and cons, which demonstrates their ability to think critically and consider different perspectives. Developing formal reasoning involves the ability to think logically and systematically, which is necessary for this type of activity. It shows that the students are progressing in their cognitive development and are able to engage in higher-level thinking skills.

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32.

To improve students' writing and motivate them to continue striving for mastery, a teacher would employ which of the following strategies most often?
- Individual conferencing with specific feedback
- Whole group direct instruction in writing
- Small group direct instruction in writing
- Peer editing and revision sessions
Correct Answer

A. Individual conferencing with specific feedback

Explanation

A teacher would most often employ the strategy of individual conferencing with specific feedback to improve students' writing and motivate them to continue striving for mastery. This strategy allows the teacher to provide personalized guidance and support to each student, addressing their individual needs and areas for improvement. Through one-on-one conferences, the teacher can give specific feedback, offer suggestions for improvement, and encourage students to set goals for their writing. This individualized attention and feedback can greatly enhance students' writing skills and boost their motivation to excel in writing.

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33.

Prior to taking her 6th-grade class on an excursion to an amusement park, which language arts activity should the teacher use to help the English language learners in her class communicate with the vendors at the park?
- Role-playing
- Peer tutoring
- Brainstorming
- Journal writing
Correct Answer

A. Role-playing

Explanation

Role-playing is an effective language arts activity that can help English language learners communicate with vendors at the amusement park. By acting out different scenarios, students can practice using vocabulary and phrases that they may need to interact with vendors, such as ordering food or asking for directions. Role-playing allows students to practice real-life situations in a safe and supportive environment, helping them gain confidence and improve their communication skills.

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34.

The most appropriate technique for teaching students the concept of an author's purpose is to have the students
- Summarize the content of a long piece of writing.
- Circle all the imperative sentences in their compositions.
- Identify several pieces of work designed to inform, to persuade, or to entertain.
- Identify the speakers in various pieces of literature.
Correct Answer

A. Identify several pieces of work designed to inform, to persuade, or to entertain.

Explanation

To teach students the concept of an author's purpose, it is most appropriate to have them identify several pieces of work designed to inform, persuade, or entertain. This technique allows students to analyze different texts and understand the different purposes authors have when writing. By identifying these purposes, students can develop a deeper understanding of how authors use language and structure to achieve their goals. This technique also encourages critical thinking and helps students become more discerning readers.

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35.

Which of the following critical approaches to literature focuses on everyday life in various cultures (e.g., traditions, rituals, celebrations)?
- Anthropological
- New historicism
- Psychological
- Formalism
Correct Answer

A. Anthropological

Explanation

The correct answer is anthropological because this critical approach to literature focuses on studying and understanding the cultural aspects of everyday life, such as traditions, rituals, and celebrations. It seeks to analyze how these cultural elements shape and influence the literature of a particular time and place. This approach often involves examining the social, historical, and cultural contexts in which a literary work was produced, and how these factors contribute to its meaning and interpretation.

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36.

Students are preparing to write a newspaper article about the life cycle of the alligator. Which of the following would be the most likely type of organization that they might use in the article?
- Spatial
- Chronological
- Cause and effect
- Compare and contrast
Correct Answer

A. Chronological

Explanation

The most likely type of organization that students might use in the article about the life cycle of the alligator is chronological. This is because the life cycle of the alligator follows a specific sequence of events, starting from birth, going through different stages of growth and development, and ending with reproduction. By organizing the article chronologically, the students can present the information in a clear and logical order, allowing readers to easily understand and follow the progression of the alligator's life cycle.

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37.

A 7th-grade teacher wants her students to actively engage in group discussion. However, when she places students in their respective groups, provides them a summary of her expectations, topics, roles and goals, only one group's outcomes are compatible with those she intended. She polls the class and discovers that the groups that erred did not understand their mission. Which of the following personal conduct components did she not adequately address?
- Respect
- Listening
- Mutual intent
- Self-discipline
Correct Answer

A. Mutual intent

Explanation

The 7th-grade teacher did not adequately address the component of mutual intent. This means that the groups that did not understand their mission did not have a shared understanding or agreement on what they were supposed to accomplish. The teacher may have provided the groups with a summary of her expectations, topics, roles, and goals, but she failed to ensure that all the groups had a clear understanding of the intended outcome and purpose of their discussions. This lack of mutual intent resulted in the groups' outcomes being incompatible with what the teacher intended.

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38.

A middle school language arts teacher is presenting a lesson on writing conventions. Which of the following is the best way for the teacher to effectively show students how to use correct proofreading symbols for peer editing?
- Use a projection device to share how to use proofreading symbols
- Provide a proofreading chart for implementation of symbols
- Identify sample papers and share with the whole group
- Form groups and have students correct their papers
Correct Answer

A. Use a projection device to share how to use proofreading symbols

Explanation

Using a projection device to share how to use proofreading symbols is the best way for the teacher to effectively show students how to use correct proofreading symbols for peer editing. This method allows the teacher to visually demonstrate the proper use of the symbols, ensuring that all students can see and understand the information being presented. It also provides an opportunity for students to ask questions and engage in a discussion about the symbols and their usage.

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39.

Students who are working independently are analyzing a video on wildlife. Which of the following would be an effective instructional strategy to teach students for analyzing the video?
- Dramatic retelling
- How to make inferences
- Text structure and text features
- How to use plot analysis charts
Correct Answer

A. How to make inferences

Explanation

An effective instructional strategy to teach students for analyzing the video on wildlife would be to teach them how to make inferences. This strategy would help students to go beyond the explicit information presented in the video and make educated guesses or interpretations based on their observations and prior knowledge. By teaching students how to make inferences, they will develop critical thinking skills and be able to draw conclusions about the behavior, characteristics, and interactions of the wildlife in the video.

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40.

Mrs. Bourdon wants her 8th-grade students to understand how studying poetry is relevant to their lives. What small-group activity below would best address this goal within an integrated approach to language arts?
- Choosing a song and a poem with similar themes and creating a presentation to facilitate students' understanding of the works
- Creating a poetry dictionary that contains examples of figurative language taken from the poems previously studied in class
- Creating a dance to the words of a poem previously studied in class
- Identifying figurative language in song lyrics and creating a collage to illustrate their understanding
Correct Answer

A. Choosing a song and a poem with similar themes and creating a presentation to facilitate students' understanding of the works

Explanation

Choosing a song and a poem with similar themes and creating a presentation would best address Mrs. Bourdon's goal of helping her 8th-grade students understand how studying poetry is relevant to their lives. This activity allows students to explore the connection between music and poetry, as well as analyze and compare the themes in both works. By creating a presentation, students are actively engaged in the process of understanding the works and can share their insights with their peers. This integrated approach to language arts encourages critical thinking, creativity, and a deeper appreciation for poetry.

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41.

According to current research, English language learners are most likely to benefit from language arts instruction that
- Immerses students in an English-only environment regardless of their level of proficiency in English.
- Emphasizes the development of academic skills in English over the development of interpersonal skills.
- Separates English-language instruction from content-area instruction.
- Recognizes that student's knowledge and skills in their primary language can be transferred to English.
Correct Answer

A. Recognizes that student's knowledge and skills in their primary language can be transferred to English.

Explanation

The correct answer suggests that language arts instruction for English language learners should recognize that their knowledge and skills in their primary language can be transferred to English. This means that educators should acknowledge and build upon the existing knowledge and skills that students have in their first language, as this can aid in their acquisition of English. By recognizing this transferability, teachers can create a more effective and inclusive learning environment for English language learners.

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42.

A language arts teacher asks students to take out a piece of writing from their writing folder that they want to work on. The teacher tells the students to rewrite their piece of writing from a different perspective or point of view. This is a strategy for which stage of the writing process?
- Prewritting
- Drafting
- Revising
- Editing
Correct Answer

A. Revising

Explanation

Rewriting a piece of writing from a different perspective or point of view is a strategy used during the revising stage of the writing process. This stage involves making changes to improve the content, organization, and overall clarity of the writing. By rewriting from a different perspective, students are able to gain new insights, explore different angles, and enhance their writing by considering alternative viewpoints. This activity helps them refine their ideas and make necessary adjustments to their work before moving on to the editing stage.

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43.

The best method for utilizing the data collected from various classroom activities is to
- Make decisions about groups of students based on strengths and areas of need.
- Identify one area to focus in which to make decisions about groups of students.
- Encourage students to monitor themselves and their activities.
- Engage students in learning new subject matter.
Correct Answer

A. Make decisions about groups of students based on strengths and areas of need.

Explanation

The best method for utilizing the data collected from various classroom activities is to make decisions about groups of students based on strengths and areas of need. This approach allows teachers to identify the specific needs of each student and tailor instruction accordingly. By analyzing the data, teachers can determine which students require additional support or enrichment, and group them accordingly. This method ensures that students receive targeted instruction and support, maximizing their learning potential.

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44.

Which of the following is a reader and task factor to consider when determining text complexity?
- Student's motivation
- Levels of meaning
- Archaic language
- Readability
Correct Answer

A. Student's motivation

Explanation

Student's motivation is a reader and task factor to consider when determining text complexity because it plays a significant role in how engaged and interested a student is in the text. If a student is highly motivated, they are more likely to put in the effort to understand and comprehend the text, even if it is more complex. On the other hand, if a student lacks motivation, they may struggle to comprehend even relatively simple texts. Therefore, understanding a student's motivation level is crucial in assessing the complexity of a text for them.

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45.

A language arts class is studying word relationships. The teacher slects several sets of words to illustrate the concept. Which of the following sets would be INAPPROPRIATE for this lesson?
- Abhor, abridge, acquainted, acquired
- Cognate, cognizant, incognito, recognize
- Immortal, mortal, mortuary, post mortem
- Centennial, centimeter, century, percentage
Correct Answer

A. Abhor, abridge, acquainted, acquired

Explanation

The set of words "abhor, abridge, acquainted, acquired" would be inappropriate for this lesson on word relationships because these words do not share a common theme or relationship. The other sets of words all have a clear relationship or similarity between them. For example, the words in the set "cognate, cognizant, incognito, recognize" are all related to knowledge or awareness. Similarly, the words in the set "immortal, mortal, mortuary, post mortem" are all related to death or the afterlife. The set "centennial, centimeter, century, percentage" all have a relationship to measurement or time.

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46.

Which of the following are the best instructional practices to teach writing and speaking in response to informational texts?
- Quiz and debate
- Test and speech
- Cooperative learning groups and literary analysis
- Collaborative writing groups and multimedia presentation
Correct Answer

A. Collaborative writing groups and multimedia presentation

Explanation

Collaborative writing groups and multimedia presentation are the best instructional practices to teach writing and speaking in response to informational texts. Collaborative writing groups allow students to work together, share ideas, and provide feedback, promoting a collaborative and interactive learning environment. Multimedia presentations enable students to enhance their communication skills by incorporating visual aids, technology, and creativity. These practices encourage active engagement, critical thinking, and effective communication, fostering a deeper understanding of the content and improving students' writing and speaking abilities.

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FTCE Middle Grades English 5-9 Practice Test 2018

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

Quiz Preview

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?

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?

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?

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

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

Identify the best interdisciplinary project to incorporate history, mathematics, and language arts.

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?

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?

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

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

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

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?

Which of the following is a characteristic of emergent literacy?

A teacher is listening to a child read a grade-level passage aloud for 1 minute. As the student reads, the teacher calculates the number of words read correctly per minute to help determine the student's reading ability. What is the name of this activity?

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

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?

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

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?

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

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?

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?

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?

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?

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

To improve students' writing and motivate them to continue striving for mastery, a teacher would employ which of the following strategies most often?

Prior to taking her 6th-grade class on an excursion to an amusement park, which language arts activity should the teacher use to help the English language learners in her class communicate with the vendors at the park?

The most appropriate technique for teaching students the concept of an author's purpose is to have the students

Which of the following critical approaches to literature focuses on everyday life in various cultures (e.g., traditions, rituals, celebrations)?

Students are preparing to write a newspaper article about the life cycle of the alligator. Which of the following would be the most likely type of organization that they might use in the article?

A middle school language arts teacher is presenting a lesson on writing conventions. Which of the following is the best way for the teacher to effectively show students how to use correct proofreading symbols for peer editing?

Students who are working independently are analyzing a video on wildlife. Which of the following would be an effective instructional strategy to teach students for analyzing the video?

Mrs. Bourdon wants her 8th-grade students to understand how studying poetry is relevant to their lives. What small-group activity below would best address this goal within an integrated approach to language arts?

According to current research, English language learners are most likely to benefit from language arts instruction that

A language arts teacher asks students to take out a piece of writing from their writing folder that they want to work on. The teacher tells the students to rewrite their piece of writing from a different perspective or point of view. This is a strategy for which stage of the writing process?

The best method for utilizing the data collected from various classroom activities is to

Which of the following is a reader and task factor to consider when determining text complexity?

A language arts class is studying word relationships. The teacher slects several sets of words to illustrate the concept. Which of the following sets would be INAPPROPRIATE for this lesson?

Which of the following are the best instructional practices to teach writing and speaking in response to informational texts?