Assessment of Second Language
Second language assessment initiatives at CARLA build on the University
of Minnesota’s long-time commitment to promoting and assessing proficiency
in second language learning.
A web-based learning module provides teachers with background information,
step-by-step guidance and lots of practical resources on developing
second language assessments.
The Virtual Item Bank (VIB) provides teachers with samples of over 300 test items (mostly in English) to demonstrate how different types of stimuli can be used to assess learners’ progress in reading, listening, speaking and writing.
The Minnesota Language Proficiency Assessments (MLPA) are a battery of high-quality, proficiency-based second language assessment tools for reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The MLPA are currently available for French, German, and Spanish at two levels on the proficiency scale outlined by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages.
Teachers will find a wide range of background information and practical
information on developing assessments for second languages. Includes links
to annotated bibliographies, information about linking assessments to standards,
lesson plans, task and rubric banks and more.
Each summer CARLA offers a wide array of professional development opportunities
for K-16 language teachers including an institute focused on developing
assessments for the second language classroom.
The CARLA bibliography has more information on presentations and publications
done by faculty, students, and staff involved with this project.
