Knowra Language assessment Language assessment Language assessment is the systematic evaluation of language knowledge or ability through tests and other methods. It supports decisions about learning, proficiency, diagnosis, and selection.
Validity (psychometrics) : The degree to which evidence and theory support interpretations and uses of test scores. It tests whether language scores justify the decisions made from them.
Language proficiency test : A test that estimates a person's ability to use a language, often across contexts. It measures broad ability rather than mastery of a particular course.
Performance-based assessment : Assessment that judges learners through tasks requiring them to demonstrate knowledge or skill. Speaking and writing ability often requires evidence from actual performance.
Discrete-point testing : Testing that assesses separate language elements through narrowly focused items. It contrasts with tasks that require integrated, meaningful language use.
TOEFL : A standardized test of English proficiency widely used for academic admissions. It illustrates high-stakes assessment of English for university study.
Reliability (psychometrics) : The consistency of measurement across occasions, items, raters, or testing conditions. Unstable scoring can obscure real differences in language ability.
Diagnostic assessment : Assessment used to identify strengths, needs, or causes of difficulty for targeted action. It locates specific language-learning needs that instruction can address.
Analytic rubric : A scoring guide that assigns separate scores to distinct performance criteria. Separate criteria can show whether accuracy, fluency, or organization drives a score.
Integrative testing : Testing that requires multiple language abilities to work together in a task. It captures combinations of skills that isolated items may miss.
IELTS : An international test of English proficiency used for study, work, and migration decisions. Its modules demonstrate assessment tailored to different purposes.
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