Correct Response: D. The student's writing sample provides evidence of difficulty with English word order or syntax. The student misplaces the direct object (sugar) in the first and second sentences and incorrectly places the verb or verb phrase at the end of the clause or sentence in the first, second, and fourth sentences. The consistency of the student's errors suggests that they have likely been caused by first-language interference or "negative transfer." To help the student avoid these errors in future academic writing, the SEI teacher needs to make the student aware that English does not use these syntactic patterns. The teacher should also provide the student with explicit instruction in English syntax (i.e., explicit explanation, examples, and modeling; guided practice with corrective feedback followed by independent practice) related to the correct placement of verbs and direct objects. A and B are incorrect because the student's statements demonstrate appropriate use of academic vocabulary and understanding of the concepts related to the lesson. C is incorrect because the writing sample does not include errors involving punctuation or mechanics (e.g., capitalization, spelling).
