Language assessment | British Council

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Validity: Theoretical development and integrated arguments

A deep dive into what makes a test valid, from theory to real-world practice, highlighting the evidence needed to prove test quality.

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Time-extension and the second language reading performance of children with different first language literacy profiles

Can extra time help those with learning difficulties perform better on reading tests? This study puts common assumptions to the test with real data from Aptis for Teens.

Rethinking the second language listening test

This monograph explores common myths about listening tests and offers fresh, practical ideas for how they can be rethought.

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China's Standards of English language ability (CSE): linking UK exams to the CSE

Researchers from the UK and China explore a methodology for linking UK examinations to the China Standards for English (CSE).

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Assessing writing at lower levels: research findings, task development locally and internationally, and the opportunities presented by the extended CEFR descriptors

Explore how writing tests for beginner language learners are designed by international test providers and language teachers.

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Identifying key criteria of written and spoken English at C1

Explore the key features that define spoken and written English at the C1 level.

Assessing the language of young learners

Linking language levels to age, this research explores how assessment, especially formative testing, can align with young learners’ linguistic, cognitive, and social development.

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Investigating valid constructs for writing tasks in EAP tests for use in Japanese university entrance examinations

What makes a valid English writing test for Japanese university admissions? This study finds direct tasks like opinion pieces and summaries best reflect real writing ability.

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Validating the Core Inventory for General English

The Core Inventory for General English aims to inform teachers about the levels at which learners of English master certain aspects of the language.

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Interacting with visuals in L2 listening tests: an eye-tracking study

Can visuals improve second language listening test scores? We explored how learners watch and use videos during listening tests and what it means for performance.