TEFL Assessment and Professional Development 1 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the difference between formative and summative assessment?
- Formative is ongoing assessment during learning; summative evaluates at the end of a course or unit (Correct answer)
- They are the same thing
- Formative is always written
- Summative is always oral
Correct answer: Formative is ongoing assessment during learning; summative evaluates at the end of a course or unit
Formative assessment provides ongoing feedback during learning, while summative assessment measures achievement at the end.
Question 2: What is a placement test?
- A test given to determine a students level and assign them to an appropriate class (Correct answer)
- A test about geography
- A final exam
- A test given after completing a course
Correct answer: A test given to determine a students level and assign them to an appropriate class
Placement tests assess a students current language proficiency to ensure they are placed in a class matching their level.
Question 3: What is the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR)?
- An international standard describing language ability on a six-level scale from A1 to C2 (Correct answer)
- A European curriculum requirement
- A textbook series
- A teaching certification
Correct answer: An international standard describing language ability on a six-level scale from A1 to C2
The CEFR provides a standardized framework for describing language proficiency from beginner (A1) to mastery (C2).
Question 4: What is washback in assessment?
- The effect that a test has on teaching and learning practices (Correct answer)
- The process of returning test papers
- Grading on a curve
- Test security measures
Correct answer: The effect that a test has on teaching and learning practices
Washback describes how tests influence what and how teachers teach and what students focus on learning.
Question 5: What is a diagnostic test?
- A test that identifies specific areas of strength and weakness in a students language ability (Correct answer)
- A medical test for teachers
- A technology troubleshooting test
- A final examination
Correct answer: A test that identifies specific areas of strength and weakness in a students language ability
Diagnostic tests pinpoint exactly where students need improvement, allowing teachers to target instruction effectively.
Question 6: What professional development options exist for TEFL teachers?
- Workshops, conferences, peer observation, reflective practice, further certification, and online courses (Correct answer)
- None are available
- Only university degrees
- Only experience matters
Correct answer: Workshops, conferences, peer observation, reflective practice, further certification, and online courses
TEFL teachers can develop professionally through various formal and informal learning opportunities.
TEFL Assessment and Professional Development 1
What is the difference between formative and summative assessment?