TExES ESL/Generalist 4-8 Glossary Test

Bilingualism refers to the ability to use two languages for effective communication. It means being able to understand, speak, read, and write in two different languages. Bilingual individuals have the advantage of being able to communicate with a wider range of people and have a deeper understanding of different cultures. They can switch between languages effortlessly and adapt to different language contexts. Bilingualism is a valuable skill that promotes cultural diversity and enhances communication abilities.

The given answer, Texas Assessment of Knowlege and Skills (TAKS), is the correct answer because the statement in the question mentions that "This test replaced the TAAS test and is TEKS-based." The TEKS (Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills) is the state curriculum standards in Texas, and the TAKS test was the assessment used to measure student achievement based on these standards. Therefore, the TAKS test is the appropriate answer as it aligns with the information provided in the question.

A Word Wall is a study technique that involves using paper or a poster to write down words that are relevant to the content of the lesson being delivered. This allows students to refer to the words and use them in their writing or speaking assignments. A Word Wall is a visual tool that helps students expand their vocabulary and reinforce their understanding of the lesson's key concepts. It is a useful resource for students to have readily available in the classroom and can enhance their overall learning experience.

Cognitive Academic Language Proficiency (CALP) refers to the more advanced language skills needed for academic work, such as analysis, synthesis, and evaluation. It involves the ability to understand and use complex, conceptual language in educational settings. This is different from Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS), which are the everyday language skills used in social interactions. CALP is essential for students to succeed in school and fully comprehend academic content. Language Instruction Educational Programs (LIEP) and English Language Development (ELD) are instructional programs designed to support students in developing CALP. Paralanguage, on the other hand, refers to nonverbal communication cues such as tone of voice and body language.

Basic Interpersonal Communication Skills (BICS) refers to the language ability needed for everyday social interactions and informal conversations. It involves understanding and using language in a situational context, such as communicating with friends, engaging with the media, and participating in day-to-day experiences. BICS does not require a deep understanding of academic or complex language, but rather focuses on the practical use of language in everyday situations.

Schema refers to a diagrammatic outline or representation of a person's understanding or perception of the world. It can be in the form of graphic organizers, fishbone graphs, Venn diagrams, or any other visual representation that helps individuals organize and make sense of information. Schemas are used to enhance learning and comprehension by providing a visual structure for organizing knowledge and connecting related concepts.

Assimilation refers to the complete absorption of the characteristics and behaviors of another culture. It involves adopting the cultural norms, values, and practices of the dominant culture, often resulting in a loss or suppression of one's own cultural identity. This process can occur in various contexts, such as when immigrants adapt to the culture of their new country or when minority groups assimilate into the majority culture. Assimilation can lead to cultural homogeneity and the erosion of diversity, but it can also facilitate social integration and acceptance within a society.

Realia refers to the use of real-life objects in the classroom to enhance learning and make connections to students' lives. In this context, using objects like a bank deposit slip or a cash register during a unit on banking helps students understand the practical application of the concepts being taught. By interacting with real objects, students can engage in hands-on learning experiences that make the content more meaningful and relatable.

Acculturation is the process of learning and adopting aspects of a different culture, typically through interaction with members of that culture. Schools play a significant role in shaping this process by providing education and exposure to different cultural practices and beliefs. Therefore, the correct answer for this question is the Acculturation Process.

Sheltered Instruction is an approach to teaching that allows students to receive English language support while learning content subjects. This approach extends the amount of time students have to receive this support, which can be beneficial for English language learners. By providing instruction that is specifically designed to meet the needs of these students, Sheltered Instruction helps to ensure that they are able to understand and engage with the content being taught. This approach helps to lower the affective filter, or the emotional barriers that can hinder language acquisition, and supports the acculturation process, or the adaptation to a new culture and language.

Enculturation refers to the process of learning and internalizing one's own culture, primarily through the influences of home and family. It involves acquiring the knowledge, values, beliefs, and behaviors that are characteristic of a particular culture. This process starts from early childhood and continues throughout a person's life. Through enculturation, individuals develop a sense of identity and belonging within their cultural group. It helps shape their worldview, social interactions, and understanding of societal norms. Therefore, enculturation is the most suitable answer to the given question.

Comprehensible Input is the correct answer because it refers to the component of the Sheltered Instruction Observation Protocol that helps make messages to students more clear and understandable through the use of gestures, pictures, visuals, films, and other media. This strategy ensures that the language and content being presented to students is at an appropriate level of difficulty and can be comprehended by them. By providing comprehensible input, teachers can facilitate language acquisition and enhance student understanding.