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

ELLs at which proficiency level begin to develop their ability to generate simple sentences?

1. Emerging

2. Commanding

3. Transitioning

4. Expanding

The correct answer is: Emerging

Children learning English as a second language typically progress through various stages of language development. At the Emerging proficiency level, students begin to familiarize themselves with basic vocabulary and grammatical structures. This stage is characterized by a focus on understanding and producing simple language forms. As they develop their skills, they begin to construct simple sentences, often using familiar words and phrases they have learned. In contrast, the other proficiency levels indicate more advanced stages of language development. Commanding denotes a high level of proficiency where learners can express themselves fluently and accurately. Transitioning represents a stage where learners are moving toward greater complexity but have not yet fully established their abilities to formulate simple sentences independently. Expanding indicates that students are able to create more complex sentences and express detailed ideas, which is beyond the capability of students at the Emerging level. Thus, it is at the Emerging level that ELLs first start generating simple sentences.