Ohio Assessments for Educators (OAE) Early Childhood Practice Exam

What is a preschool teacher's main concern regarding a child's oral language development?

1. Using pronouns appropriately and consistently

2. Pronouncing words with the /ch/ sound

3. Using relational terms consistently

4. Describing recent personal events

The correct answer is: Describing recent personal events

A preschool teacher's main concern regarding a child's oral language development is closely tied to a child's ability to communicate effectively and share experiences, which is well-represented in the ability to describe recent personal events. This skill is crucial for several reasons. First, describing personal events requires a child to use a variety of vocabulary and sentence structures, which enhances their language skills overall. It also fosters narrative skills, encouraging children to organize their thoughts and present information logically. Furthermore, sharing personal experiences aids in social interaction, as children learn to engage with peers and adults by discussing their lives. While using pronouns, pronouncing specific sounds, and utilizing relational terms are important aspects of language development, they serve more as components of a broader skill set. Describing personal events is a more holistic representation of a child's ability to express themselves and relate to others, making it a critical area of focus for preschool teachers.