How to Test Speaking Skills in Japan

72 Part 2: How can we mark & administer speaking tests? feedback will grow and grow, and it all stems from having an effec tive marking system Hold a practice test Even if you’re an experienced teacher and know your way around speaking tests, it’s still a good idea to hold a practice exam, especially before the first time you conduct one You need time to make sure your preparations are adequate and to give students a chance to get used to this strange new form of assessment Most likely many of your Japanese students will never have gone through a proper speaking test, so they will naturally be anxious and confused Going through a dry run can really help them a lot In the end, a practice test will increase the reliability and validity of your exam because students will be clearer on what to do and how to succeed Practicality will also be enhanced because you’ll have a chance to spot any pain points and work through them When preparing for your first speaking test, here are a few things to consider First, what materials and equipment will you need? You’ll need your marking/feedback sheet, of course, but what else? The answer will depend on the specific testing activity you use, so I’ll come back to this point in Part 3 Still, you should expect to have some handouts or activities to prepare In addition, if you want to record your test, be sure to test out your equipment For example, if you’re using your smartphone, which recording app will you use? If you have a USB recorder, do you know how to use it and move the files into your computer? Speaking of moving files… what is your workflow for managing the recordings? Where will you keep them? How will you name and organize them? If you’re using a