7/31/2019 Basic Test Writing Skills Version 2

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By

David Parker

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Need for dependable measures of ability.

Need to provide information about the

achievement of candidates.

Need to be able to make meaningfulcomparisons.

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- Show if candidates have reached acertain level. IELTS, Cambridge first cert. etc.

- Demonstrate how successfulthe candidate has been in meeting the courseoutcomes. Elementary 1, Elementary 2, etc.

Identify learners strengths andweaknesses.

- These are intended to placelearners in the correct level of a teachingprogramme.

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Validity= Accurately measures what it isintended to measure.

Content

Scoring Face value

Comparison with independent tests

Do the results compare with other reliabletests.

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Any test that can have a significant affect onthe lives of those who take it carries with itan obligation to make the test as valid aspossible.

To increase validity: Write detailed specifications for each test.

Use direct testing methods as opposed to

indirect methods. Ensure that scoring responses relate directly

to what is being tested.

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Reliability= Consistency.

If the candidate takes the test and then

immediately retakes the test they will get thesame result (excluding human variables).

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Professional layout.

Clear instructions.

Familiarity.

Detailed scoring key.

Trained scorers.

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A clear statement of the problem is a vitalfoundation stone in developing any test.

The following questions should help in

defining this: What kind of test is required? Placement,

diagnostic, achievement or proficiency.

What is its precise purpose?

What abilities are to be tested? (Test what isrequired not what is easy.)

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How much detail is required in the results? One single score, different areas scored

separately (IELTS)

What degree of accuracy is required in theresults? Precise score or pass/fail.

What are the limitations? Facilities,expertise, administration etc.

Once the problem has been clearly definedthen steps can be taken to solving it.

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Specifications of the test must be written atthe start (not at the end) and should includethe following

The tasks to be carried out by the

candidate.

Types of text. In a reading test this maybemagazine articles, emails, letters etc.

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Addressees of text.

Length of texts. (Reading/listening)

Topics.

Readability.

http://

www.onlineutility.org/english/readability_test_

and_improve.jsp

Range of structures.

Range of Vocabulary.

Dialect/accent style.

Speed of processing.

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Test structure (sections)

Number of items

Number of texts and items with each text

Channel (computer, pen and paper, verbal)

Timing - section and for the whole test

Techniques - list what techniques will beused to measure which skills/sub-skills

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Tests are better written with the input ofothers.

Once you have given and corrected yourtest analyze the results and improve on it.