In an ELT classroom, referential questions are used to do what?

• A. Elicit information
• B. Check comprehension
• C. Encourage guessing
• D. Summarize points

Answer: (A)

Referential questions in an ELT classroom are questions that require students to provide information beyond a yes/no or single-word answer. They prompt learners to share facts, opinions, or personal experiences in English, so the teacher can see what the student can express and how they organize their ideas. This kind of questioning invites genuine language production and helps reveal vocabulary, grammar, and fluency in context. For example, asking what someone did over the weekend or why they prefer a certain hobby encourages a fuller, connective response rather than a quick yes or no. While other question types are useful for checking understanding, guiding predictions, or summarizing material, referential questions specifically aim to elicit information from students to practice speaking and assess actual language use.