The assessment of oral language is now quite commonly done in pairs or groups, and there is a growing body of research which investigates the related issues (e.g. May, 2007). Writing generally tends to be thought of as an individual activity, although a small number of studies have documented the advantages of collaboration in writing in the…

Presents examples of how regular classroom-based assessment can be incorporated into foreign language classroom activities, without compromising teaching and learning time, through methods involving student self-assessment, improved assessment tools, small-group practice and testing, and multiple use of standard forms and materials. (CB)