Oregon Educator Licensure Assessments (ORELA) Practice Exam

Which of the following best exemplifies familiar language?

1. You are requested to attend the meeting.

2. Could you pass me that, please?

3. What’s going on?

4. Kindly refrain from interrupting.

The correct answer is: What’s going on?

The choice that best exemplifies familiar language is the phrase "What’s going on?" This expression reflects a casual and informal way of communicating that is often used in everyday conversations among friends or acquaintances. Familiar language tends to be relaxed and approachable, making it easier for individuals to connect and engage with one another in a social context. In contrast, the other options use more formal or polite language, which might not feel as immediate or personal. For example, "You are requested to attend the meeting" and "Kindly refrain from interrupting" utilize formal structures and tones that are typically found in professional or official situations. Such language may establish distance or formality, rather than the familiarity that characterizes the correct choice. Additionally, "Could you pass me that, please?" is polite but still leans towards a more formal request compared to the casual nature of "What’s going on?" This distinction helps highlight why the chosen phrase stands out as a better example of familiar language.