Comparing language tests and test preparation materials holds important implications for the latter's validity and reliability. However, not enough studies compare such materials across a wide range of indices. Therefore, this study investigated the text complexity of IELTS academic reading tests (IRT) and IELTS reading practice tests (IRPrT).…

The manual is intended to help writers or adapters of instructional materials for deaf students. The first section examines difficulties in providing suitable reading material for deaf students. The problems in evaluating deaf students' reading levels are examined. Writers are cautioned to pay particular attention to syntax, vocabulary, and…

Estimating readability requires more than a formula comparing word length and sentence length. Other factors to be considered include vocabulary, the relationship between syntax and readability, the syntax used in children's oral language, and writing style. Steps are outlined for systematically estimating readability of instructional materials…

Provides a preliminary look at the syntactic complexity of primary grade reading materials commonly used for initial reading instruction. (RB)

The study found that revising basal reader stories to improve text coherence resulted in improved comprehension for hearing impaired readers. Findings suggest that current efforts to control readability through stringent syntactic guidelines may result in texts that are more difficult, rather than less difficult, for hearing impaired readers to…

This paper discusses a study designed to survey English as a second language readers for the purpose of determining whether a range of syntactic gradation can be observed, and the degree to which readers intended for the same level of proficiency are of equivalent difficulty. (Author/CFM)

Describes an information processing model which can be used to make operating instructions and reference manuals easy for customers to understand and remember. Long-term and short-term memory, readability of text, the use of graphics, and providing cues to improve retention are discussed in terms of the model. (EJS)