THE QUALITY OF TEST QUESTIONS IN SAMPLE VIETNAM NATIONAL HIGH SCHOOL ENGLISH EXAMINATION 2017

Abstract

Abstract

This paper is primarily conducted to evaluate the test reliability and the quality of test questions in Sample Vietnam National High School English Examination (VNHSEE) 2017. The test is categorized as both a norm – referenced placement test and criterion – referenced achievement test. Classical Test Theory (CTT) was applied to examine item analysis and estimate reliability coefficients of the sample test. Pilot testing was carried outwith a convenience sample of 200 grade – 12 students at Hanoi – Amsterdam High School. Subsequently, descriptive analysis, item analysis, reliability coefficient computation and distractor analysis of the sample test were carried out. With respect to the difficulty and discrimination level, VNHSEE 2017 was rather easy to the sample group. As a norm – referenced test serving the purpose of placement, the sample test generally separated selected examinees rather effectively.However, with the aim of an achievement test, VNHSEE 2017distinguished low – end students better than high – end students. In addition, the test achieved notably high internal reliability, which illustrates its consistency of scoring and classification. The amendments to test format could be attributable to the enhancement of its reliability and dependability coefficients. Overall, Sample VNHSEE 2017 possessed good quality of test questions. However, distractor analysis results highlighted some problematic distractors in need of revision. Item design was reported to be the main culprit of implausible options. Discussions and suggestions for improvement regarding specific cases were discretely presented below. In conclusion, VNHSEE 2017 with revised test format have directly influenced English teaching and learning process, with its inevitable washback effects. Some implications drawn from current findings, hopefully, propose some suggestions for developing test quality and improving English pedagogical methodologies.