Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

What is one of the effective ways beginners learn letter shapes?

1. Writing on paper exclusively

2. Reading advanced literature

3. Playing with blocks and plastic letters

4. Listening to audiobooks

The correct answer is: Playing with blocks and plastic letters

Playing with blocks and plastic letters is an effective way for beginners to learn letter shapes because this hands-on approach engages children in a tactile and visual learning experience. Manipulating physical objects like blocks and plastic letters allows young learners to explore and experiment with letter formation, enhancing their fine motor skills as they handle the letters. This kind of play encourages recognition of different shapes and allows for repeated practice in a fun and low-pressure manner, which is crucial for early literacy development. In contrast, writing on paper exclusively may not engage multiple senses and can be challenging for beginners who are still developing their motor skills. Reading advanced literature is not appropriate for beginners, as it does not cater to their level of understanding and can lead to frustration. Listening to audiobooks lacks the interactive component necessary for actively learning letter shapes, making it less effective for this specific skill.