Correct Response: A. Before considering other reasons for this student's relatively slow progress in developing English language skills (such as an emotional or language disorder), an appropriate first step for the teacher to take is to attempt to lower the student's affective filter. Stephen Krashen's concept of the affective filter refers to a psychological barrier that, when low, can accelerate language acquisition by allowing second-language learners to more readily absorb input and take risks when using language. A high affective filter can slow down the process of language acquisition because learners may fear making mistakes, so they avoid speaking, or they may be too self-conscious to ask for clarification when they do not understand a message. To lower the affective filter of the student in question, the teacher can implement various strategies or modify the classroom environment to see if the student becomes more comfortable and interactive. B and D both decrease the necessity for the student to communicate with others in English, whereas practice interacting with others in various contexts is necessary for developing English language skills at an appropriate rate. C is incorrect because, even though the whole class is being addressed, the student may still feel singled out, resulting in the affective filter being raised rather than lowered. In addition, while a student may comprehend that in theory making mistakes is a natural part of language learning, the student may still not feel comfortable or motivated enough to actively take such risks.
