Language Proficiency and Assessment Flashcards

What does the ACTFL Proficiency scale measure in language assessment?

Answer: The functional ability to use language in real-world communication across levels from Novice to Distinguished

The ACTFL (American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages) Proficiency Guidelines measure functional language ability across the modes of communication at levels from Novice to Distinguished.

In language testing, what is a 'rubric'?

Answer: A scoring guide that describes the criteria and performance levels used to evaluate language tasks

A rubric is a scoring tool that outlines the criteria and descriptions of different performance levels used to assess language tasks consistently and fairly.

What is the difference between 'formative' and 'summative' assessment in language learning?

Answer: Formative assessment monitors learning progress during instruction; summative assessment evaluates learning after instruction

Formative assessment occurs during learning to provide feedback and guide instruction, while summative assessment evaluates overall achievement at the end of an instructional period.

What does 'inter-rater reliability' mean in language assessment?

Answer: The degree to which different examiners give the same score to the same performance

Inter-rater reliability measures the consistency of scores given by different evaluators to the same language performance, ensuring fairness and objectivity.

What is 'validity' in the context of language testing?

Answer: The degree to which a test actually measures what it claims to measure

Validity refers to whether a test accurately measures the specific language skill or construct it is designed to assess.

What does 'reliability' mean in language assessment?

Answer: The test produces consistent, stable scores across different occasions or administrations

Reliability means a test consistently produces the same results under the same conditions, regardless of when or where it is administered.