Name: Adnan Muhammad Khan

Class: BS English

Roll Number: 050

Semester: 7th (A)

Subject: Language Testing And Assessment

Submitted to: Ma’am Fatima Tuz Zahra

Analyze IELTS General English Test. Discuss its validity and reliability.

Design your own test. Ensure its practicality, reliability, validity and wash
back. Also, design scoring criteria of your test.

The IELTS General English Test is a widely recognized language proficiency test that assesses
an individual’s ability to use English in real-life situations. Let’s discuss its validity and
reliability in a straightforward manner.

Validity: The IELTS General English Test is considered valid because it measures what it’s
intended to measure, which is a person’s ability to use English for everyday communication,
work, and study. This validity is supported by the test’s focus on real-life scenarios, like writing
emails, engaging in conversations, and reading practical materials.

Reliability: The test is reliable because it produces consistent results when administered to the
same person on different occasions. This is achieved through rigorous test development and
scoring processes, and standardized administration procedures.

Now, let’s design a simple English test with practicality, reliability, validity, and washback in
mind:

Test Name: Everyday English Proficiency Test (EEPT)

Sections:
 1. Reading: Provide passages from everyday materials like newspapers and websites.
Questions should assess comprehension, inference, and the ability to find specific
information.

2. Listening: Play short audio clips of common conversations, news reports, or interviews.
Questions should focus on understanding the main ideas, details, and the speaker’s
attitude.

3. Writing: Ask test-takers to write an email in response to a common scenario (e.g.,

requesting information, thanking someone, or expressing an opinion). This assesses
practical writing skills.

4. Speaking: Conduct a face-to-face or recorded conversation where candidates discuss

topics like their hobbies, daily routines, or future plans. Assess fluency, coherence,
vocabulary, and pronunciation.

Scoring Criteria:

- Each section is scored out of 10 points, with a total of 40 points for the entire test.
- Scoring focuses on the accuracy of answers and communication skills.
- In the Reading and Listening sections, a correct answer receives full points.
- In the Writing and Speaking sections, assessors evaluate content, organization,
language use, and pronunciation.
- Clear and relevant responses score higher.
Practicality: The EEPT is designed to be accessible and easy to administer. It doesn’t require
complex materials or technology. It can be taken online or in person, and results are provided
quickly.

Reliability: The test is designed with clear instructions and consistent scoring criteria to ensure
reliable results. Training assessors is crucial to maintain reliability.

Validity: The test content reflects real-life language use, making it a valid measure of a
person’s English proficiency for everyday communication.

Washback: The test encourages positive washback by focusing on practical language skills.
Preparing for the EEPT naturally helps candidates improve their everyday English abilities, as
success on the test translates into improved real-world communication skills.