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

What does discourse competence refer to?

1. The ability to understand spoken language

2. The ability to arrange language into cohesive works

3. The ability to create simple sentences

4. The ability to use advanced vocabulary in writing

The correct answer is: The ability to arrange language into cohesive works

Discourse competence refers to the ability to arrange language into cohesive works, which involves understanding how to construct meaningful and coherent spoken or written communication. This competence encompasses not only the organization of sentences but also the overall structure of paragraphs, texts, and dialogues, ensuring that ideas flow logically and connect appropriately. For example, a speaker or writer with strong discourse competence can effectively use various cohesive devices, such as connectors, pronouns, and discourse markers, to create an intelligible narrative or argument. This ability is crucial for effective communication, especially in academic and professional contexts, where clarity and logical progression of ideas are essential. In contrast, the other options focus on narrower aspects of language use. The ability to understand spoken language relates to listening skills; creating simple sentences pertains more to grammatical competence; and using advanced vocabulary in writing emphasizes lexical knowledge rather than the organizational aspect of discourse. Each of those skills is important, but they do not encompass the broader concept of discourse competence.