Testing Dyslexic Language Learners

Testing Dyslexic Language Learners This two-day workshop offered by ELTwell for all language teachers will run in Lancaster on two further weekends in 2009: 10 & 11 October, and 14 & 15 November. Day 1 Title: Key Principles in Language Testing (Facilitator: Tania Horák) This covers basic issues in language testing applicable to all learners. Some of the issues we will cover, depending on workshop participants' knowledge and interests, will include: why we test, types of test, issues of fairness, balancing reliability and validity, washback, and procedures to enhance test quality. Day 2 Title: Inclusive Practice in Test Development (Facilitator: Anne Margaret Smith) Day 2 applies the issues explored on Day 1 to the testing of language learners with dyslexia and other specific learning differences. Many students with dyslexia under-perform in formal assessment situations, due to the characteristics commonly associated with this specific learning difference (e.g. unreliable memory, slow processing speed, and difficulty with expressing ideas in writing). This workshop explores ways in which language teachers can help students with dyslexia prepare for their formal, external, exams. Strategies for designing dyslexia-friendly internal tests and assessments will be discussed, which will enable dyslexic learners to demonstrate their true ability. For more information and a booking form, contact: 0845 051 9328 or e-mail: ams@eltwell.co.uk http://www.eltwell.co.uk