Question 1

Recess should be used only as a reward for those who get their work done.

Accepted Answer

Recess is an important part of a child's day and should not be used solely as a reward. It has been shown to benefit children's physical, social, and emotional well-being and should be incorporated into their daily routine regardless of their work completion.

Question 2

Primary aged children should be working at desks.

Accepted Answer

Primary aged children benefit from more movement during the day, and sitting at a desk for extended periods of time can be detrimental to their physical and mental health. It is recommended that they have a mix of sitting and standing activities throughout the day, and that they are given opportunities for movement breaks and physical activity.

Question 3

Which recess argument is INCORRECT?

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that recess actually enhances academic learning and children's attention and focus, so using that time for academic learning may not be as effective. Additionally, physical activity has been linked to improved cognitive function, so taking away recess could actually hinder academic progress.

Question 4

An appropriate time to schedule whole-group activities in the primary classroom is

Accepted Answer

Whole-group activities are important for building community and creating shared experiences among students. The best time to schedule these activities in the primary classroom is in the early morning, when students are fresh and alert. This allows for maximum engagement and participation from all students, setting a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Question 5

Which of the following is NOT true of primary classrooms?

Accepted Answer

In a primary classroom, children should be encouraged to use interest centers as a means for active learning and exploration. However, they should not be restricted to using these centers only when they have finished all their work. Allowing children some choices about where they work and providing places for them to keep evidence of their progress are also important aspects of a primary classroom. Additionally, active learning, which involves hands-on activities, collaboration, and problem-solving, is essential for promoting engagement and achievement in early childhood education.

Question 6

Opportunities to read and write everyday are part of the environment for literacy.

Accepted Answer

Opportunities to read and write everyday help in developing literacy skills, and therefore, are an important part of the literacy environment.

Question 7

The schedule in an after-school program should include all EXCEPT

Accepted Answer

Time for television should not be included in an after-school program as it does not promote learning or development. The other options - time for snack, time for homework, and time for creative projects - are all important components of a well-rounded after-school program.

Question 8

Much of the day for primary children should be spent in

Accepted Answer

Research has shown that primary children benefit more from individual or small group instruction rather than whole group instruction. This allows for differentiation and individualized attention to each child's needs. While reading instruction is important, it should not be the sole focus of the day. Sitting at desks for extended periods of time is not developmentally appropriate for young children and can lead to disengagement and decreased learning.

Question 9

NCLB legislation calls for increased accountability of school systems, and greater choices for parents.

Accepted Answer

NCLB (No Child Left Behind) legislation does call for increased accountability of school systems and greater choices for parents.

Question 10

Learning centers are appropriate only in preschool and kindergarten.

Accepted Answer

Learning centers can be utilized in various educational settings and are not limited to just preschool and kindergarten. They can be beneficial for students of all ages and can cater to different learning styles and needs.

Question 11

Primary aged children learn best by

Accepted Answer

Primary aged children learn best through hands-on, concrete experiences that allow them to explore and manipulate materials. This helps to build a foundation of understanding before moving on to more abstract concepts. Rote instruction, videos, and studying for tests are often less effective ways of reaching young children.

Question 12

Good after-school programs do all EXCEPT

Accepted Answer

While after-school programs often offer homework help and support, they may not require children to complete homework as soon as they arrive. Some programs may provide an opportunity for children to engage in physical activity or outdoor games before beginning homework or other activities.

Question 13

Mandatory testing in language arts and mathematics has reduced instructional time in other disciplines by one-third.

Accepted Answer

Mandatory testing in language arts and mathematics often takes up a significant amount of instructional time, leaving less time for other subjects. Therefore, it can reduce instructional time in other disciplines by one-third or even more.

Question 14

Portfolios are useful in helping children recognize and document their progress.

Accepted Answer

Portfolios allow children to see their growth and development over time and can help them identify their strengths and areas for improvement.

Question 15

Reading instruction should take up most of the day in the primary classroom.

Accepted Answer

Effective primary education incorporates a balanced approach, including reading instruction, math, science, social studies, arts, and physical education, to support the development of well-rounded students.

Question 16

Things not likely found in a primary classroom to facilitate literacy learning include

Accepted Answer

All the items listed (computers, number books, big books) can be found in a primary classroom to facilitate literacy learning.

Question 17

Recess provides important opportunities for socialization as well as gross motor activity.

Accepted Answer

Recess allows children to interact with their peers, develop social skills, and engage in physical activity. Both of these aspects are important for their overall health and well-being.

Question 18

There are benefits to flexible seating arrangements, such as

Accepted Answer

Flexible seating arrangements provide opportunities for students to share interests and ideas, learn from their peers, and develop communication skills. By allowing students to choose where they sit, they can work with classmates they may not have worked with before, and this can foster collaborative learning experiences. Students can help each other with tasks they might ordinarily struggle with or give inspiration when it comes to tackling particular projects. These kinds of benefits can help students achieve academic growth and learn valuable social skills.

Question 19

Allowing children to work together in the primary classroom only leads to copying.

Accepted Answer

Allowing children to work together in the primary classroom can lead to collaboration, communication, problem-solving, and sharing of ideas. It can also help in developing social skills and promoting teamwork. However, proper monitoring and guidance from the teacher are necessary to ensure that copying and plagiarism do not occur.

Question 20

Part of the environment for literacy should include

Accepted Answer

A print rich environment can include books, magazines, posters, labels, and signs with print for children to see and interact with. A writing center with materials for children to make books can provide opportunities for children to practice their writing skills in a fun and engaging way. Journals for writing daily experiences can encourage children to reflect on their experiences and practice their writing skills regularly. All of these elements together contribute to an overall environment that supports and promotes literacy development.

Quiz 8: Developmentally Appropriate Physical Environments: for Primary-Aged Children