Strategies used by learners to obtain practice in using the language. Example: starting up conversations.

• A. Socio-affective strategies
• B. Strategic Competence
• C. Sociolinguistic Competence
• D. Short-Term Memory

Answer: (A)

This question tests understanding of the types of strategies learners use to get practice with the language, especially in real interaction. Starting up conversations is a hallmark example of socio-affective strategies. These strategies involve managing social interaction and one’s emotions to create opportunities to speak and to engage with others in the target language. By initiating a conversation, a learner reduces anxiety, builds confidence, and invites communication, all of which directly facilitate more language practice in authentic social settings.

Strategic Competence, while important, is about choosing and using the right communication methods to overcome gaps in knowledge during interaction—planning, paraphrasing, or repair strategies when communication breaks down. It’s more about navigation and problem-solving within ongoing interaction rather than the act of creating chances to practice itself.

Sociolinguistic Competence refers to knowing how to use language appropriately in different social contexts—choosing the right formality, register, or culturally appropriate expressions. It’s about appropriate language use in context, not about the learner’s personal strategies to obtain practice.

Short-Term Memory is a cognitive capacity used during processing, not a strategy for obtaining practice or initiating interaction.