Comparison Between Language Testing and Assessment
Language testing and assessment have different focuses. Testing measures specific language
skills like grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension, while assessment looks at overall
language ability, including communication and real-world language use.
Their procedures are also different. Testing follows strict, standardized methods with little
flexibility, whereas assessment is more varied and includes observations, interviews, and
classroom activities.
The results from testing are usually numbers, such as scores, grades, or percentiles. In contrast,
assessment provides both numbers and qualitative feedback, like teacher comments and
observations.
The purpose of testing is often for important decisions, such as admission, certification, or
placement. Assessment, however, helps track learning progress and improve teaching by giving
a broader view of a student’s development.
In short, testing gives a quick measurement of specific skills, while assessment provides a
deeper and more complete understanding of language learning.
1. Positive Effects
Tests can help students focus on important skills like reading, writing, listening, and speaking.
If a test is well-designed, it can motivate students to study harder and help teachers teach more
effectively.
🔹 Example: The IELTS exam tests all four skills, so students must practice them all instead of
just learning grammar. In the IELTS speaking test, students must answer questions, describe
pictures, and express opinions. This encourages them to practice real-life speaking skills, not
just memorize vocabulary.
2. Negative Effects
If teachers focus too much on tests, they may only teach what is in the exam and ignore
creativity and real communication. Students may learn test tricks instead of real language skills.
Also, high-stakes tests can cause stress and anxiety.
🔹 Example: Many students prepare for TOEIC by learning test strategies but struggle with real
English conversations. Many students in Vietnam or China score high on grammar-based
exams like TOEFL or TOEIC but struggle to have a basic conversation with foreigners because
they were trained to answer multiple-choice questions rather than speak naturally.
3. Ways to Reduce Negative Effects
To avoid problems, tests should be fair and accurately measure skills. Teachers should use
different assessment methods, not just written tests. Students also need to learn how to study
effectively, not just for exams.
🔹 Example: Instead of only using written tests, teachers can use presentations or group projects
to assess speaking skills.
English tests in Vietnam should match the school curriculum by focusing on real
communication skills. Teachers can use small daily tests, group work, and speaking
activities to help students practice. Big exams should check overall learning but not make
students too stressed. Schools can also use international test formats like IELTS or TOEFL to
improve quality. Using technology and real-life tasks will make learning English more useful
and interesting. A mix of different tests will help students learn better and feel more
confident in using English.
Activity 2: Testing vs. Assessment - Sorting and Comparing
To complete this activity, we need to sort the given phrases into two categories: Testing and
Assessment, and explain why each phrase fits into its category.
Definitions:
Testing: A formal method of measuring a student's knowledge or skills, usually with a
specific score (e.g., exams, quizzes).
Assessment: A broader approach to evaluating a student’s learning progress using
various methods (e.g., feedback, projects, self-evaluation).
Sorted List:
Testing Assessment
Multiple-choice test Portfolio assessment
Standardized proficiency test Oral interview
Teacher-made quizzes Writing sample
Observation of classroom interaction
Peer feedback
Self-assessment
Project presentation
Explanations:
1. Testing methods (e.g., multiple-choice tests, standardized tests, quizzes) are usually
formal, structured, and focus on scores.
2. Assessment methods (e.g., portfolios, interviews, feedback) focus on continuous
learning, improvement, and student progress.
