Assessing Second Language Reading: Insights from Cloze Tests

The book investigates the issue of cloze-validity as a measure of second language reading comprehension, distinguishing between general reading ability and specific reading comprehension. It provides a comprehensive account of cloze procedure, discussing its origin, versions, use for teaching and testing, and latest research on its validity as measures of readability, language proficiency, and second language reading. Two new cloze tests are introduced and researched. The book concludes with suggestions for developing tests that can better measure reading comprehension in light of recent research insights on the complex and dynamic nature of reading.

Format: Hardback
Length: 231 pages
Publication date: 26 August 2021
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

This comprehensive book delves into the realm of cloze-validity as a crucial measure of second language reading comprehension. It begins by establishing a clear distinction between general reading ability and the more specialized reading comprehension, paving the way for a thorough exploration of the related research on L2 reading comprehension. Through meticulous analysis and clarification of the literature, the book seeks to unravel the complexities surrounding this categorization.

A comprehensive account of the cloze procedure is presented, encompassing its historical origins, various versions, applications in teaching and testing, and the latest advancements in its use as a measure of readability, language proficiency, and second language reading.

The book encompasses a series of studies conducted at different stages, employing a range of techniques such as interviews and questionnaires to investigate the validity of a diverse array of cloze tests, criterion reading tests, and other cloze and reading tests in general. Additionally, two new cloze tests, namely the reader-centered cloze test and the phrase cloze test, are introduced and thoroughly researched as measures of reading ability.

The book concludes with insightful recommendations for developing tests that can more effectively measure reading comprehension, taking into account the recent research insights into the intricate and dynamic nature of reading. This book is a valuable resource for researchers, lecturers, and graduate and post-graduate students pursuing courses in Second Language Acquisition, Applied Linguistics, TESOL, Language Assessment, and Educational Measurement.

Weight: 535g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030844691
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021