The present study investigates the relationship between productive collocation knowledge and advanced levels on the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) scale. More precisely, the potential progression between the B2 and C1 levels of the CEFR is studied through the development of a productive collocation test in second…

Previous research investigating the effects of unassisted and assisted repeated reading has primarily focused on how each approach may contribute to improvement in reading comprehension and fluency. Incidental learning of the form and meaning of unknown or partially known words encountered through assisted and unassisted repeated reading has yet…

A three-step process in designing a test to assess children's oral language proficiency in specific communicative areas is described and illustrated, and the utility of such tests for classroom teachers is discussed. (MSE)

Discusses the concept of communicative competence in second language learning and various models for testing this skill. (AM)

The Ontario Secondary School Literacy Test (OSSLT) is a cross-curricular literacy test issued to all secondary school students in the province of Ontario. The test consists of a reading and a writing component, both of which must be successfully completed for secondary school graduation in Ontario. This study elicited 16 first language and second…

An annotated bibliography lists French language tests designed for core French, French immersion, or French native language instruction at the elementary and secondary levels. Citations include basic bibliographic information, intended population, grade or difficulty levels, brief descriptions of test sections or format, and approximate test…

A study of the Glendon Examination of Bilingual Competence included a survey of former candidates, students, and faculty regarding perceptions of test content and format and development and piloting of a new test. Issues arising in the research are discussed. The test and grading criteria are appended. (Author/MSE)

An annotated bibliography of 22 tests designed for core French, French immersion, and native French speaking students includes information on intended test population, levels, test types, test construction, use history and statistics, and source. An index and directory of distributors are included. (MSE)

Describes the process and discourse stances of a team of teachers involved in deriving a rating scale for writing ability. Focuses on instances during the process where actions of the participants or their use of the data sample could be shown to influence the criteria potential for variation within the two test method characteristics of "scale…

The development of an oral language proficiency rating scale for use in evaluating New Brunswick's junior and senior high school students' core French program achievement is described and discussed. (MSE)

Paper delivered at an in-service training session for grade 6 French teachers at North York, Ontario, Canada. (DS)

An overview of empirical research conducted in Canada's core French language programs addresses eight major areas: (1) program characteristics and outcomes, (2) program supplements, (3) student characteristics, (4) enrollment influences, (5) teacher characteristics, (6) public opinion, (7) program implementation and administration, and (8)…