Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Assessment of Professional Knowledge Practice Exam

What is the focus of early production in language acquisition?

1. Improving writing skills

2. Slow progress in speaking phrases

3. Avoiding participation in group discussions

4. Understanding complex vocabulary

The correct answer is: Slow progress in speaking phrases

The focus of early production in language acquisition centers around the development of speaking abilities, often characterized by slow progress in producing phrases. At this stage, learners are typically transitioning from single-word utterances to the ability to form simple phrases. This gradual advancement signifies that they are beginning to communicate more effectively, though their ability to express thoughts and ideas fully is still developing. In this early phase, learners might struggle with constructing longer, more complex sentences, leading to a process that appears slow. It is essential during this period for educators to provide support and opportunities for practice to encourage students’ speaking abilities without overwhelming them. Engagement in meaningful conversations can help facilitate their language development. Understanding complex vocabulary, improving writing skills, and avoiding participation in group discussions align with other stages or challenges in language learning rather than with the early production phase, which predominantly emphasizes the growth of speaking skills through basic phrases.