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.
http://www.onlineutility.org/english/readability_test_and_improve.jsphttp://www.onlineutility.org/english/readability_test_and_improve.jsphttp://www.onlineutility.org/english/readability_test_and_improve.jsphttp://www.onlineutility.org/english/readability_test_and_improve.jsp7/31/2019 Basic Test Writing Skills Version 2
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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.