Unit 1 Language testing

About test: What is testing?  A procedure for critical evaluation; a means of determining the presence, quality, or truth of something, or  A series of questions, problems, or physical responses designed to determine knowledge, intelligence, or ability

Why test?  In order to keep the world orderly and effective, everyone must be tested about his/her ability, proficiency and achievement. However, the major purpose of test is for learning. Testing can help learning.

Ways of testing  Testing can be done in a face-to-face interview, or  As a written examination, or  in a distance (over the telephone or internet).

Language learning and testing  to know the learner’s language learning ability  to measure the learner’s achievement on the target language.  to evaluate some kind of learning method  …

Types of language testing  Proficiency tests are designed to assess an individual's overall language proficiency, that is, actual language use in authentic life situations or work-related contexts. These tests are not linked to any specific course syllabus or learning objectives. What is measured is the extent and adequacy of an individual's control of the language skills in interacting with a native speaker as well as his or her linguistic skills in the broader sense.

 Diagnostic tests are projections used to pinpoint problem areas during language training and to determine if remedial action is required. The Language Testing Unit administers oral diagnostic tests on a regular basis to students enrolled in intensive foreign language and official language courses to highlight students' strengths and weaknesses in oral proficiency.

 Achievement tests are closely linked to the course material used in class and test items are written around a sampling of course content. They are administered by classroom teachers throughout the training process to determine mastery of a specific course content and learning objectives.

 Placement tests are built around a language curriculum and results are used to determine at which unit of instruction an individual should start his or her training.

Pre-reading questions Can you recall any experience about testing? Anything special and unforgettable? Do you have any idea about TEM-4, which you must have in April of this year?