California Teacher of English Learners (CTEL) Practice Exam

The choice that defines culture as "basic assumptions and beliefs" captures the foundational elements that shape a group's worldview and behavior. This perspective emphasizes that culture is not merely a collection of observable behaviors or artifacts; rather, it encompasses the underlying values and principles that inform how individuals and communities interpret experiences, make decisions, and engage with the world around them.

Understanding culture in this way is crucial, as it highlights that even if rituals and practices change, the core beliefs can persist and influence how members of a culture interact. This aligns with sociocultural theories that consider the implicit frameworks through which people understand their realities, which are essential for educators, particularly when working with diverse populations and fostering an inclusive learning environment.

While the other options describe aspects of culture—such as shared customs, visible practices, and language—they do so primarily from a surface-level perspective. Culture is more deeply rooted in the assumptions and beliefs that inform those visible elements, making the option that focuses on basic assumptions and beliefs the most comprehensive definition.