FTCE Exceptional Student Education (ESE) K-12 Practice Test

Which of the following is a characteristic of learning disabilities?

1. Problems that are mainly caused by the environment

2. Involvement of significant visual impairments

3. Deficits in processing spoken or written language

4. Exclusively physical coordination issues

The correct answer is: Deficits in processing spoken or written language

Deficits in processing spoken or written language are a hallmark characteristic of learning disabilities. These disabilities specifically affect the ability to interpret and understand information presented in language form, which can manifest in various ways such as difficulties in reading (dyslexia), writing (dysgraphia), or math (dyscalculia). Understanding and processing language is essential for academic success, and when this process is disrupted, it can lead to challenges in learning and communication. Other options focus on aspects that do not accurately represent learning disabilities. For example, characteristics that are primarily caused by environmental factors do not capture the inherent neurobiological differences found in individuals with learning disabilities. Involvement of significant visual impairments is not a defining feature of learning disabilities; these disabilities are typically more related to cognitive processing rather than sensory limitations. Lastly, while physical coordination issues can occur, they are not exclusively indicative of learning disabilities, as these disabilities primarily involve cognitive aspects rather than purely physical ones.