Standard 2: DAP

Which of the following is NOT a key component of DAP?

• Knowing what is age-appropriate for children

• Understanding individual differences and needs

• Planning activities based only on teacher preferences

• Considering cultural and family backgrounds

What does the term "Developmentally Appropriate Practice" (DAP) mean?

• a) Teaching based on state-mandated assessments

• b) Instruction that is age-appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally appropriate

• c) A standardized curriculum for all children regardless of ability

• d) A focus only on academic skills

Which of the following activities best aligns with DAP for preschoolers?

• a) Memorizing and reciting multiplication tables

• b) Sitting quietly for a 45-minute lecture on letters and numbers

• c) Engaging in hands-on activities, songs, and storytelling

• d) Completing worksheets for most of the day

What is the primary goal of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC)?

• To create national standardized tests for young children

• To promote high-quality early childhood education through research, policy, and practice

• To replace public school education with private preschool programs

• To focus on secondary education rather than early childhood education

Which of the following best describes NAEYC’s definition of Developmentally Appropriate Practice (DAP)?

• A teaching approach based solely on academic achievement

• A standardized curriculum that all children follow

• Teaching based on what is age-appropriate, individually appropriate, and culturally relevant

• A method that requires young children to master skills at the same time

NAEYC states that play is an essential part of early childhood education because:

• a) It allows teachers to take a break from instruction

• b) It supports cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development

• c) It is less structured and requires minimal teacher involvement

• d) It prevents children from engaging in academic learning

According to NAEYC, which of the following is the best way to assess young children?

• Observation, documentation, and authentic assessments integrated into daily activities

• High-pressure standardized testing

• Weekly written exams with multiple-choice questions

• A single test at the end of the year

Why is play considered an essential part of DAP?

• a) It helps teachers manage classroom behavior

• b) It is a natural way for children to learn and develop skills

• c) It reduces the need for structured learning activities

• d) It only benefits social development, not academics

Which classroom environment best supports DAP?

• A rigid setting with desks in rows and little interaction

• A flexible, play-based learning environment with hands-on activities

• A quiet space where children only complete independent work

• A setting where every child is required to meet the same milestones at the same time

Which teacher behavior best reflects DAP principles?

• Expecting all children to reach the same developmental milestones at the same time

• Adapting lessons to meet the needs and interests of each child

• Using the same teaching strategies for all students regardless of background

• Relying primarily on worksheets and flashcards for instruction