Communication Arts/Literature (Grades 5–12) Subtest 2

Subarea 1. Listening and Speaking

0008

Apply knowledge of listening strategies.

applying knowledge of the components of the listening process (e.g., focusing, decoding) and relationships between these components
identifying the characteristics and purposes of various types of listening, including critical (e.g., listening to determine a speaker's point of view), empathetic (e.g., listening to improve mutual understanding and trust), and deliberative (e.g., listening to learn information)
applying knowledge of barriers to listening effectively (e.g., internal and external noise; delivery; language; personal, cultural, and social bias)
applying knowledge of strategies for listening actively (e.g., clarifying, restating, validating, building, or reflecting on a speaker's message)
applying knowledge of strategies for evaluating a speaker's point of view, reasoning, intended audience, and use of evidence and rhetoric, including fallacious reasoning or exaggerated or distorted evidence
applying knowledge of strategies for assessing a speaker's word choice, points of emphasis, and tone
applying knowledge of how to create assessment criteria for evaluating oral presentations

0009

Apply knowledge of speaking strategies.

applying knowledge of a variety of approaches to preparing speeches (e.g., selecting a topic, identifying the intended audience and purpose)
applying knowledge of types of speech anxiety and apprehension (e.g., audience-specific, situational) and ways of managing them (e.g., rehearsing, using relaxation techniques)
distinguishing among types of speech delivery (e.g., memorized, extemporaneous, impromptu) appropriate for various topics, purposes, audiences, and occasions
applying knowledge of techniques for presenting claims and findings, and emphasizing important points in a focused, coherent manner with relevant evidence, sound reasoning, and well-chosen details
applying knowledge of rhetorical devices and techniques used in speeches (e.g., repeating key words and phrases, establishing common ground, appealing to emotion)
applying knowledge of how to adapt speech to a variety of contexts, audiences, tasks, and feedback from self and others
applying knowledge of the different roles that voice (e.g., volume, rate, tone) and body language (e.g., hand gestures, facial expressions, eye contact) play in speech delivery

0010

Apply knowledge of strategies for participating in academic discussions.

applying knowledge of strategies for promoting civil discussions and democratic processes and decision-making by setting clear goals and deadlines; defining group members' roles; and observing group norms and conventions
applying knowledge of strategies for effective participation in academic discussions, such as referring to evidence; posing and responding to questions that probe reasoning and evidence; and clarifying, verifying, and challenging ideas and conclusions
applying knowledge of strategies for ensuring that academic discussions are forums for a full range of positions on topics or issues and for divergent and creative perspectives