Question

As Molly was (i)____________ Spanish with her friends before their trip to Chile, she discovered that although she could comprehend her friends, she could not (ii)_____________ her thoughts in the (iii)____________ language. Blank (i) a. mastering b. disregarding c. practicing Blank (ii) a. acknowledge b. articulate c. disencumber Blank (iii) a. inherent b. objective c. unfamiliar

Short answer

The sentence should read: As Molly was practicing Spanish with her friends before their trip to Chile, she discovered that although she could comprehend her friends, she could not articulate her thoughts in the unfamiliar language. So, the answers are (i) practicing, (ii) articulate, (iii) unfamiliar.

Step-by-step solution

Understand the Context

Start by reading the whole sentence and try to understand the context. Molly was doing something with Spanish language before her trip to Chile. She could understand her friends but she had difficulty doing something in a certain type of language. So, the words that fill the blanks need to make sense in this context.

Sorting through options for Blank (i)

Looking at the options for blank (i), we can see that the words 'mastering', 'disregarding', and 'practicing' could all justifiably fill the blank. However, 'mastering' suggests that Molly has completely learned Spanish, which contradicts the later part of the sentence where she has some trouble with the language. 'Disregarding' doesn’t make sense in this context as she’s obviously trying to communicate in Spanish. 'Practicing' makes the most sense because it implies that she is trying to improve her Spanish, aligning with the context of the sentence. Hence, the suitable word for blank (i) is 'practicing'.

Sorting through options for Blank (ii)

For blank (ii), the possible options are 'acknowledge', 'articulate', and 'disencumber'. 'Acknowledge' doesn't fit here because Molly's problem is not recognizing her thoughts, but expressing them. 'Disencumber' doesn’t fit here either as it doesn’t align with the context of the sentence. 'Articulate' makes sense because it means expressing something effectively in words. Therefore, the appropriate word for blank (ii) is 'articulate'.

Sorting through options for Blank (iii)

The options for blank (iii) are 'inherent', 'objective', and 'unfamiliar'. 'Inherent' and 'objective' do not make sense in this context. 'Unfamiliar' accurately describes a language that Molly, who's just practicing, may struggle with. It aligns properly with the context and hence is the suitable word for blank (iii).

Key concepts

Language Comprehension

Language comprehension refers to the ability to understand spoken or written language. It is about grasping the meaning conveyed through words, grammar, and context. In the exercise, Molly can comprehend her friends' Spanish conversations, meaning she understands the words and sentences being used. Language comprehension is a critical skill, especially when learning a new language.

• It involves listening closely or reading carefully to ensure the correct message is received.
• Context plays a significant role; understanding the situation helps in interpreting words and phrases accurately.
• Consistent practice, such as conversing with friends, improves comprehension over time.

You can enhance this skill by exposing yourself to various language inputs, like movies, books, or online articles. The more diverse the material, the better your comprehension will get.

Articulating Thoughts

Articulating thoughts is the process of effectively expressing ideas and feelings through language. In Molly's case, she struggles with articulating her thoughts in Spanish, despite understanding what is being said. This can be particularly challenging in a new language.

• Expressing thoughts requires a good command of vocabulary and grammar.
• Confidence plays a big role as hesitation can hinder clear articulation.
• Regular practice and finding opportunities to speak can bridge the gap between comprehension and articulation.

Using tools like language learning apps or joining conversation clubs can significantly improve your ability to articulate in a new language, allowing for a smoother and more effective communication process.

Language Proficiency

Language proficiency encompasses both understanding a language and being able to communicate effectively in it. It's a combination of comprehension, articulation, and fluency. In the exercise, while Molly is practicing Spanish, it highlights her developing proficiency as she works towards being more comfortable with the unfamiliar language.

• Proficiency levels range from basic comprehension to advanced fluency where one can speak, read, and write effortlessly.
• Immersing yourself in a language through various experiences can aid significantly in gaining proficiency.
• Setting realistic goals and assessing progress regularly can help improve proficiency gradually.

Engaging with native speakers, taking structured language courses, and using multimedia tools are ways to enhance your language skills. Remember, becoming proficient is a gradual process, so patience and perseverance are key.