In language teaching, practising language that learners have seen previously and recycling it in a different context is called what?

• A. Recycling
• B. Rehearsal
• C. Revision
• D. Retention

Answer: (A)

The idea being tested is recycling language items by using them again in new contexts. This practice helps move known language from short-term memory into longer-term use by forcing retrieval and flexible application, so learners can adapt familiar phrases or structures to different situations, which builds both accuracy and fluency.

For example, a student who learned how to ask for directions can practice the same question pattern in various scenarios—finding a cafe, a bus stop, or a bookstore—without repeating the exact same context. This differs from rehearsal, which is more about repeating language to drill pronunciation or accuracy in a similar setting. Revision focuses on reviewing material to refresh knowledge, not necessarily reusing it in new contexts. Retention is about keeping information in memory, not the active process of applying it differently.