Educating All Students (EAS) Practice Exam

What characterizes ELL students' performance in reading and writing English?

1. Higher levels of comprehension than native speakers

2. Conversational English skills typically lag behind performance in reading and writing

3. Equivalence to bilingual students in all skills

4. Immediate mastery of reading skills

The correct answer is: Conversational English skills typically lag behind performance in reading and writing

The choice indicating that conversational English skills typically lag behind performance in reading and writing accurately reflects a common trend among English Language Learners (ELLs). ELL students often develop their reading and writing skills more quickly than their ability to engage in conversational English. This phenomenon can be attributed to several factors. For one, reading and writing in English may allow students to use resources like dictionaries and grammar aids, which can help them perform better in those areas. Additionally, academic language, which is often the focus of reading and writing instruction, is different from everyday conversational language, meaning students can become proficient in academic settings while still needing more time and practice to comfortably engage in social conversations. Recognizing this distinction is critical for educators so that they can provide targeted support and resources to ELL students, helping them build their conversational skills alongside their academic literacy. Understanding this dynamic can aid in developing more effective teaching strategies that address the unique progression of ELLs in their language learning journey.