Testing Second Language Speaking (Applied Linguistics and Language Study)

Fulcher, Glenn

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0582472709 ISBN 13: 9780582472709

Publisher: Routledge, 2003

The testing and assessment of second language learners is an essential part of the language learning process. Glenn Fulcher's Testing Second Language Speaking is a state-of-the-art volume that considers the assessment of speaking from historical, theoretical and practical perspectives.

The book offers the first systematic, comprehensive and up-to-date treatment of the testing of second language speaking. Written in a clear and accessible manner, it covers:

• Explanations of the process of test design
• Costing test design projects
• How to put the test into practice
• Evaluation of speaking tests
• Task types for testing speaking
• Testing learners with disabilities

It also contains a wealth of examples, including task types that are commonly used in speaking tests, approaches to researching speaking tests and specific methodologies that teachers, students and test developers may use in their own projects.

Successfully integrating practice and theory, this book demystifies the process of testing speaking and provides a thorough treatment of the key ethical and technical issues in speaking evaluation.

Review:

'an in depth study and evaluation of methods used, theory behind  and necessary standards within the realm of test and assessment of a speaker's ability in a second language.'

'...clear and concise...'

Fulcher: Testing Second Language Speaking

Synopsis:

This title brings together in one volume a comprehensive account and critical analysis of testing second language speaking. It contains a wealth of examples including task types that are commonly used in speaking tests, approaches to researching speaking tests, and specific methodologies that teachers, students and test developers may use in their own projects. Annotated examples are presented to enhance understanding of practical testing projects.