NYSTCE English to Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) Practice Test

At what stage do ELLs typically begin to identify letters and words?

1. Fluent Literacy Stage

2. Early Stage Literacy Progression

3. Intermediate Literacy Stage

4. Advanced Language Acquisition Stage

The correct answer is: Early Stage Literacy Progression

The Early Stage Literacy Progression is when English Language Learners (ELLs) typically begin to identify letters and words. During this stage, students are developing foundational skills necessary for reading and writing in English. They start recognizing the alphabet, associating letters with sounds, and building a basic vocabulary. This is crucial for establishing literacy, as they learn to decode written language and comprehend their meanings. In contrast, the other stages mentioned depict more advanced levels of language and literacy development, where ELLs would have already mastered basic literacy skills. During the Fluent Literacy Stage, for example, students demonstrate proficiency in reading and writing and can engage with complex texts. Similarly, the Intermediate Literacy Stage involves a deeper understanding of language structures and vocabulary, while the Advanced Language Acquisition Stage indicates a high level of competency in both language and literacy, allowing for critical thinking and analysis of texts.