Correct Response: A. Developing and maintaining a shared sociocultural identity is empowering to English learners. Insertions of words and phrases from their shared first language reinforces students' sense of community with their peers. B is incorrect because, in this scenario, there is no evidence that the English learners are emphasizing important points when using their first language. C is incorrect because the students are described as having "similar linguistic backgrounds" and conversing "mostly in English," so it is unlikely that one of their members is at a significantly lower level of English language proficiency. D is incorrect because the students are conversing "mostly in English" and only periodically insert a word or phrase from their shared language. They are clearly not engaging in translation practice.
