1.
Ebonics is best described as...
Correct Answer
B. A non-standard form of American English
Explanation
Ebonics is best described as a non-standard form of American English because it is a variety of English that has unique grammatical and phonological features. It is primarily spoken by African American communities and has its roots in African languages, Creole, and Southern American English. While it shares similarities with Standardized English, it is considered non-standard due to its distinct linguistic characteristics.
2.
If a person speaks Ebonics and Standardized English, should they be considered bilingual?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
If a person speaks both Ebonics and Standardized English, they should be considered bilingual. Ebonics is a distinct dialect of English that is spoken by some African Americans, while Standardized English refers to the standard form of English used in education and professional settings. Since the person in question can effectively communicate in both languages, they possess the ability to understand and speak two different languages, thus meeting the criteria for being bilingual.
3.
Should speakers of Standardized English be required to earn credits in one or more Ebonics courses in order to graduate from school?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
One possible explanation for the answer "Yes" is that requiring speakers of Standardized English to earn credits in one or more Ebonics courses can promote cultural understanding and inclusivity. By learning Ebonics, students can gain a better understanding of African American Vernacular English (AAVE) and its unique linguistic features. This can help break down stereotypes and prejudices, fostering a more inclusive and respectful society. Additionally, studying Ebonics can also provide students with valuable insights into the historical and cultural contributions of African Americans.
4.
Should Ebonics be offered as a foreign language option in high school?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The given answer suggests that Ebonics should be offered as a foreign language option in high school. This could be because Ebonics, also known as African American Vernacular English, is a distinct language variety spoken by African American communities. Offering it as a foreign language option could promote cultural diversity and inclusivity, as well as provide students with a deeper understanding of different linguistic and cultural backgrounds. Additionally, recognizing Ebonics as a legitimate language could help combat language discrimination and promote linguistic equality.
5.
If a person primarily speaks Ebonics, will this negatively affect his or her likelihood of succeeding in school?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
If a person primarily speaks Ebonics, it may negatively affect their likelihood of succeeding in school. This is because Ebonics, also known as African American Vernacular English, is considered a non-standard dialect and differs from Standard English in terms of grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. In an educational setting where Standard English is the norm, students who primarily speak Ebonics may face challenges in understanding and expressing themselves effectively. This can impact their academic performance and communication skills, potentially hindering their success in school.
6.
If a person primarily speaks Ebonics, will this negatively affect his or her likelihood of finding and maintaining employment?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
If a person primarily speaks Ebonics, it may negatively affect their likelihood of finding and maintaining employment. This is because Ebonics, also known as African American Vernacular English (AAVE), is considered a non-standard dialect and is often stigmatized in professional settings. Employers may prefer candidates who speak standard English, as it is seen as more professional and better aligned with mainstream communication norms. This bias can limit job opportunities for individuals who primarily speak Ebonics, leading to potential difficulties in finding and keeping employment.
7.
If a person primarily speaks Ebonics, will this negatively impact the academic performance of his or her children living in a home where Ebonics is primarily spoken?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The use of Ebonics as the primary language in a household can negatively impact the academic performance of children. This is because Ebonics is a non-standard variety of English that differs significantly from the standard English used in academic settings. Children who primarily speak Ebonics may struggle to understand and communicate effectively in standard English, which can hinder their ability to succeed academically. Additionally, they may face challenges in reading, writing, and comprehension, as they may not have been exposed to the grammatical rules and vocabulary of standard English.
8.
Should public school teachers (K-12) be required to take a course on Ebonics?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Public school teachers (K-12) should be required to take a course on Ebonics to better understand and communicate with students who speak African American Vernacular English (AAVE). AAVE is a legitimate and distinct dialect with its own grammar and vocabulary. By learning about Ebonics, teachers can bridge the communication gap, improve cultural sensitivity, and create a more inclusive and effective learning environment for all students.
9.
Should students who primarily speak Ebonics be considered "English Language Learners" and be placed in second language acquisition programs?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
Students who primarily speak Ebonics should be considered "English Language Learners" and be placed in second language acquisition programs because Ebonics is a distinct language variety with its own grammar and vocabulary. By providing these students with targeted language instruction, they can improve their English language skills and better access the academic curriculum. Additionally, recognizing Ebonics as a valid language variety promotes linguistic diversity and inclusivity in education.
10.
I would define my race as...
Correct Answer
A. Asian/Pacific Islander
Explanation
The given answer of Asian/Pacific Islander indicates that the person identifies their race as belonging to the Asian or Pacific Islander ethnic group. This could imply that the person's ancestry or cultural background aligns with these regions, which are known for their diverse ethnicities and heritage.
11.
I would describe my age as...
Correct Answer
A. 18-25
Explanation
The given answer "18-25" suggests that the person describing their age falls within the range of 18 to 25 years old. This age range typically represents young adulthood or the early stages of adulthood, where individuals are transitioning from adolescence to independence. People within this age group are often exploring their identity, pursuing higher education, starting their careers, and experiencing various life changes and milestones.
12.
I would describe my personal exposure to Ebonics as...
Correct Answer
A. No exposure
Explanation
The correct answer is "No exposure" because the question is asking about the individual's personal experience with Ebonics. If the person has not been exposed to Ebonics at all, then their personal exposure would be considered "No exposure."
13.
I identify Standard English as my primary language.
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The given answer is "Yes" because the statement indicates that the person identifies Standard English as their primary language.
14.
I have been educated in another language in addition to Standard English.
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The given statement suggests that the person has received education in a language other than Standard English. Therefore, the correct answer is "Yes" indicating that the individual has been educated in another language alongside Standard English.
15.
I consider myself "fluent" in a language other than Standard English.
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
This statement suggests that the person is confident in their ability to speak a language other than Standard English fluently. They believe that they have a high level of proficiency in this language and can communicate effectively in it. Therefore, the correct answer is "Yes," indicating that the person considers themselves fluent in the language.
16.
If a person does not receive a job because he or she speaks Ebonics, should that be considered discrimination?
Correct Answer
A. Yes
Explanation
The correct answer is "Yes" because discrimination refers to the unfair treatment of individuals based on certain characteristics, such as race, ethnicity, or language. If a person is not hired solely because they speak Ebonics, it can be considered discrimination as it targets a specific language and denies equal opportunities based on language proficiency.
17.
The use of Ebonics in the public school system should be...
Correct Answer
A. Encouraged
Explanation
The use of Ebonics in the public school system should be encouraged because it is a legitimate language variety spoken by many African American students. By acknowledging and incorporating Ebonics into the curriculum, educators can create a more inclusive and culturally responsive learning environment. This approach can help bridge the gap between home and school language, promote better academic performance, and foster a sense of pride and identity among students. Additionally, encouraging the use of Ebonics can also lead to more effective communication and understanding between teachers and students.