Language Assessment & Evaluation

Course Description
This course provides an overview of current developments in the assessment of English language learners
in different contexts of foreign or second language learning and academic achievement. It will enable
students to structure assessment procedures to reflect current research understandings and best classroom
practices. Students will have opportunities to both critically examine assessment tools used in current
practice and to apply their knowledge by designing their own tools.

Week Topics
1 Introduction: Key concepts in language assessment & evaluation
2 Purposes & principles of language assessment
3 Models of language proficiency
4 Types of tests and assessment
5 Principles of language assessment & test development
6 Assessment of listening skills
7 Assessment of speaking skills
8 Assessment of grammar & vocabulary
9 Mid Term
10 Assessment of reading skills
11 Assessment of writing skills
12 Reliability & validity in language assessment
13 Alternative forms of assessment: Portfolios, peer and self-assessment
14 Technological and other innovations in assessment
15 Educational & social impact of assessment
16 Final Term

Assessment

Marks Distribution

Marks Head Frequency Total Marks

Assignment 1 20%

Close readings 1 25%

Mid Term 1 20%

Final Exam 1 35%

 Total Marks 100%

Assessment Details
20% Assignment – The students need to focus on any one of the course readings in details and
submit a 2000-word critical paper along with a five-minute reflective presentation.
25% Close Readings – Students will write six single-spaced, one-page close readings – roughly
450-550 words – in which they examine a specific aspect to one of the texts discussed in this
course.
20% Mid Term Exam - The midterm exam will be based on a selection of topics taught till the
midterm week. The exam will be analytical in nature and students will be expected to
demonstrate knowledge from class discussions and readings given in class.
35% Final Exam- The final exam will be based on a selection of topics post midterm. The exam
will be analytical in nature and students will be expected to demonstrate knowledge from class
discussions and readings given in class.
Guidelines for Students
ASSIGNMENTS
 Typed and printed assignments are to be submitted, unless stated otherwise. The
assignments must be in 12 font in Times New Roman with double line spacing.
 Assignment submission after the due date will result in marks deduction. Any work
submitted after 2 days of the given due date will not be marked.
 Students will be given both individual and group assignments. With group assignments
all the members will receive the same grade.
 In-class assignments and activities are also conducted for different modules. If you are
Absent in any, inquire from the instructor within 1 week for an alternative assignment.
 Bring the given reader and additional readings provided in the class for a productive
session.
 The assignments should be referenced using APA 7 style
PRESENTATIONS
 For different presentations, guidelines will be provided
 Understand what the topic requires, research and then formulate your argument
 Make slides (the number of slides will vary depending on the topic given) on Power Point
 Do not add a lot of information on the slides which makes it difficult for the audience to
read what is written
 Add different visuals to make the presentations interactive
Recommended Readings
1. Alderson, J. C., Clapham, C., & Wall, D., (1995). Language test construction and
evaluation. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
2. Brown, H. D. (2018). Language assessment: Principles and classroom practices (3rd ed.).
New York: Pearson Education. (KEY TEXT)
3. Douglas, D. (2010). Understanding language testing. UK: Hodder Education.
4. Fulcher, G. (2010). Practical language testing. UK: Hodder Education. (KEY TEXT)
5. Fulcher, G. (2015). Re-examining language testing: A philosophical and social inquiry.
Routledge.
6. Fultcher, G. and Davison, F. (2007). Language testing and assessment: an advanced
resource book. New York: Routledge.
7. Gottlieb, Margo (2006). Assessing English Language Learners. Corwin Press.
8. Hughes, A. (2003). Testing for language teachers (2nd Ed). Cambridge: Cambridge
University Press.
9. McKay, P. (2006). Assessing Young Language Learners. Cambridge: Cambridge
University Press.
10. McNamara, T. (2000). Language testing. Oxford University Press.
11. O’Malley, J. M., & Pierce, L. V. (1996). Authentic Assessment for English Language
Learners, Practical Approaches for Teachers. Addison-Wesley Publishing Company.
12. Weir, C. J. (2005). Language testing and validation: an evidence-based approach.
Macmillan Palgrave.

Relevant Journals
13. Language Assessment Quarterly (https://www.tandfonline.com/loi/hlaq20 )
14. Language Testing (https://journals.sagepub.com/home/ltj)
15. Assessing Writing (https://www.journals.elsevier.com/assessing-writing)

Other Resources

16. Language Testing Resources Website: http://www.languagetesting.info/

This site is designed and maintained by Prof. Glenn Fulcher.