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Multiple Choice Quiz
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1

The best way to study the historical development of language for communication is
A)by taking an interdisciplinary approach.
B)through an examination of archaeological finds.
C)by an analysis of the genetic makeup of animals.
D)by looking at the genome of chimps.
2

Which of the following is NOT one of the factors mentioned in this chapter as essential to language acquisition?
A)the evolution of genetic codes
B)native architecture
C)environmental influences
D)cognitive development
3

Which of the following words carries the most connotative meaning?
A)dog
B)death
C)dinosaur
D)deer
4

When a speaker wants to convey information efficiently and get work done, it is best to
A)use connotative words.
B)use abstract words.
C)use words with denotative meaning.
D)choose symbols that go beyond a dictionary definition.
5

The theory of language developed by Sapir and Whorf states that
A)grammar is a more important element of language to master than dictionary definitions.
B)dictionary definitions are more important to master for effective communication than the grammar of a language.
C)effective communication involves equal mastery of grammar and vocabulary.
D)language is an important aspect of culture that defines our perceptions of the world around us.
6

Which statement about the meaning attributed to words is FALSE?
A)Ultimately people determine the meaning of words.
B)Specialized terms are sometimes understood only by people in a certain profession.
C)The meaning of words evolves more slowly within a coculture as compared to a host culture.
D)We continually create new meanings, based on our feelings and experiences.
7

The communication that takes place in an environment where a conventionalized response is expected is termed
A)appropriate language.
B)ritual language.
C)symbolic language.
D)existential language.
8

A euphemism is best defined as
A)a word created by a government or institution.
B)being used to make something more palatable or to cover up the truth.
C)a blasphemy.
D)a substitute for an obscene word.
9

Which of the following is NOT an example of inappropriate language given in this chapter?
A)doublespeak
B)ethnic epithets
C)blasphemy
D)obscenity
10

In which of the following situations would a specialized language be expected?
A)When a small group that perceives itself as without power wants to withhold information from the dominant group.
B)When someone outside a group wants to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of that group.
C)When speakers want to cover up the truth in their public conversations.
D)In all of the above situations, a specialized language would be expected.
11

When we shift our language environment,
A)we should try to use the most effective euphemisms.
B)we should choose the language that is most appropriate to it.
C)language that is considered inappropriate will not change.
D)language that is specialized will not change.
12

Which of the following communication behaviors is atypical of men?
A)making an effort to maintain status
B)interrupting
C)working in small groups
D)trying to solve problems
13

Which statement correctly describes gender differences in language?
A)Men spend more time engaging in rapport talk.
B)Women use more personal pronouns and intense adverbs.
C)When men express a problem, they are looking for an expression of understanding.
D)When women contribute their ideas in a classroom discussion, they are trying to gain status.
14

Gender-specific language and patterns of communication
A)usually become more differentiated by adolescence.
B)should be understood so that stereotypes can be overcome.
C)are consistent, even when the power distance between men and women is removed.
D)begin in childhood and are learned from peers.
15

Which statement about dialects is correct?
A)Their most obvious element is figures of speech.
B)All dialects have the equivalent degree of prestige.
C)African-American dialect is moving closer to standard English.
D)Linguists refer to them as "non-standard" forms of English.
16

Paralanguage
A)accompanies spoken language.
B)is easier to change when the communicator is writing.
C)reflects the speaker's dialect.
D)reflects the writer's dialect.
17

Slang and jargon are elements that
A)may reduce the clarity of a message.
B)may increase the power of a message.
C)may enhance the vividness of a message.
D)are more appropriate in public settings.
18

Which statement would NOT be good advice for a person who wants to increase the power of his/her speech?
A)Do not use too many tag questions.
B)Avoid qualifiers.
C)Increase the number of disclaimers.
D)Eliminate hedges.
19

Vividness of speech may be achieved by
A)careful use of tag questions.
B)first-person narratives.
C)jargon and slang.
D)paralanguage.
20

When the communicator chooses his words carefully, he is making an ethical choice because
A)labels can become self-fulfilling prophecies.
B)he needs to convey words that are more powerful than the metamessages being sent.
C)he can easily become too assertive in his use of qualifiers and disclaimers.
D)he needs to be sensitive to how his listener thinks of him as a communicator.





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