Friendly Tests
© Stefanie felix
claims to measure. Invalid tests are unfair and of little value
in helping teachers assess learning or determine fair grades.
Determine Scope and Weight of Test Items
Effective test creation begins with determining the scope of
tests. A valid test should cover the main topics, concepts,
and skills teachers taught during the time preceding the test.
Valid tests also cover appropriate—rather than unrealistic—
amounts of material.
“Tricky” questions that undermine a test’s validity may
occur inadvertently if teachers use test questions that assess
information in an entirely different way than they presented that information in class. In creating good test items,
we should address not only what was taught but also how
(Salend, 2009). Language used to present test directions and
items must align with the terminology used during instructional activities. Essay questions are usually best for assessing
content taught through role-plays, simulations, cooperative
