Essay test items

Essay test items

1. A typical essay test usually consists of a small number of questions to which the student is expected to recall and organize knowledge in logical, integrated answers. An essay test item can be an extended response item or a short answer item.

2. The Benefits of Essay Tests

   • They permit students to demonstrate achievement of such higher level objectives as analyzing and critical thinking.
   • They are less time consuming to prepare than any other item type
   • Students study more efficiently for essay type examinations than for selection (multiple choice) tests.
   • Students preparing for essay tests focus on broad issues, general concepts, and interrelationships rather than on specific details.
   • Essay tests also give the instructor an opportunity to comment on students' progress, the quality of their thinking, the depth of their understanding, and the difficulties they may be having

3. Disadvantages

   • Can limit amount of material tested, therefore has decreased validity.
   • Subjective, potentially unreliable scoring.
   • Time consuming to score.

4. Suggestions For Writing Essay Test Items

   • 5. Choose a scoring model.
   • 5. Prepare students to take essay exams.
   • 5. Write essay items at different levels of learning.
   • 1. Formulate the question so that the task is clearly defined for the student.
   • 2. Pay attention to the number of items.
   • 3. Avoid the use of optional questions on an essay test.

5. Essay Test Taking Tips

   • 1. Organize your thoughts before you begin to write
   • 2. Paraphrase the original question to form your introductory statement
   • 3. Remember: Neatness counts!
   • 4. Verb alert
   • 5. Use the principles of good English composition